Learning to Listen with Significant Others

Have you ever found yourself saying: Are you listening? Pay attention Did you hear me?

All of these situations can be remedied, or even prevented, through the practice of effective listening.

Listening is the first language skill used but one that is least studied and developed. It is a skill employers respect most in their employees and one most admired in interpersonal relationships.

This book defines the different types of listening and explores the basic elements of communication. It offers insight and clarification of the listening process found in personal relationships, group interactions, public/professional transactions, and societal roles.

This book is not intended to be a classroom textbook, but, as supplemental material on the importance of effective communication through listening. Based on academic theory, the book presents abstract concepts in a conversational manner. It uses common language style with clear reference to one's everyday experience. There is an awareness of listening as an interpersonal verbal interaction.

Through vivid examples and practical exercises insights are made into the participant's mental process. Listening activities based on the author's 30+ years in education help the reader and significant other(s) gain a greater understanding and appreciation of interpersonal communication on a deeper level. They will have a better understanding of their own listening behavior and preferences and the listening behavior and preferences of others.

Verbal and nonverbal elements have a significant influence on the effectiveness of communication. Verbal responses include questioning, paraphrasing and repeating verbatim what the speaker says. Some of the nonverbal elements include time, space/proximity/furniture, eye levels, and the angle at which the communicators are positioned. It can take three to four minutes of pleasantries at the beginning of the conversation before effective listening begins. These and many other behaviors can predict the success of the relationship.

Learning and using effective listening techniques and strategies will help avoid frustration and stress. Good listening habits, as part of effective communication, can be developed and mastered.

This book is best suited for couples preparing to marry, counselors, using it for supervisors' training, partner training, physicians' and teachers' training, law enforcement officers, attorney training, and for those who want to improve their interpersonal communication.