Listening

Listening is a perceptual process that is generally considered one of the two integral dimensions of human communication (the other being speaking). In its most basic sense, listening is the act of giving attention to a sound. Hence it is a voluntary act. According to Michael Purdy, listening is the active and dynamic process of attending, perceiving, interpreting, remembering, and responding to the expressed (verbal and nonverbal) needs, concerns, and information offered by other human beings. There is a fundamental distinction between listening and hearing. Roland Barthes clearly delineates hearing as a physical activity whereas listening is a mental activity.

The act of listening may well determine whether an individual finds success in his or her personal and professional life. Meaningful communication in any area of ...