ACTIVE LISTENING – A MODEL OF EMPATHETIC COMMUNICATION IN THE HELPING PROFESSIONS

Abstract

Background: Among the listening skills that scholars and practitioners alike consider valuable, active listening receives the most attention. It includes paraphrasing the message, asking questions, and maintaining non-verbal involvement in the conversation. The International Listening Association (ILA) defines active listening as “the process of receiving, constructing meaning, and responding to spoken and/or nonverbal messages.”
Aim: The paper aims to show the development of the concept of active listening as an empathetic model of communication that ensures understanding, acceptance, and involvement of individuals in communication processes and interactions.
Results: Active listening plays a key role in fostering meaningful connections and promoting positive interactions. With constant communication stimuli, digital distraction, and attention deficit, active listening stands out as a potential form of effective interpersonal communication. Active listening implies full involvement of the speaker, understanding the perspective, and empathic response. In interaction with young people, for example, active listening creates a safe and stimulating environment, encouraging them to freely express their thoughts, feelings, and needs. In this way, respect and a better understanding of experiences, perspectives, and emotions are shown, which builds trust, and self-esteem and ensures the development of a sense of self-worth and self-confidence.
Conclusion: Active listening is a crucial component of empathic communication in the helping professions. It enhances the quality of relationships between professionals and clients by facilitating a deeper understanding of clients’ needs, feelings, and perspectives. Active listening is a fundamental tool for professionals in the helping professions, serving as the foundation for empathic communication. Its practice can enhance clients’ quality of life, bolster their emotional well-being, and aid in problem-solving.