Question One Using Active Listening Strategies.
Active listening allows you to connect with another person by demonstrating your understanding and support. Here are three situations that might require active listening. For each situation compose an active listening response in which you
(a) paraphrase the speaker’s meaning, (b) express understanding of the speaker’s meaning,
and (c) ask questions to clarify any potential misunderstandings.
a. Your friend has just broken up a love affair and is telling you about it: I can’t seem to get Chris out of my head. All I do is think about what we used to do and all the fun we used to have.
b. A young nephew tells you that he cannot talk with his parents. No matter how hard he tries, they just don’t listen. I tried to tell them that I can’t play baseball and I don’t want to play baseball. But they ignore me and tell me that all I need is practice.
c. Your mother has been having a difficult time at work. She was recently passed up for a promotion and received one of the lowest merit raises given in the company. I’m not sure what I did wrong. I do my work, mind my own business, don’t take my sick days like everyone else. How could they give that promotion to Helen who’s only been with the company for 2 years? Maybe I should just quit.