In the effective listening model, what does 'listening for total meaning' entail?

Listening for total meaning involves grasping both the main points and the underlying messages conveyed by the speaker. This not only requires an understanding of the explicit words spoken but also an appreciation of the context, emotions, and nuances that inform the speaker's intent. Effective listening is about more than just passive reception of information; it encompasses actively interpreting and integrating what is heard to form a comprehensive understanding of the communication.

When listening for total meaning, a listener pays attention to verbal cues, as well as non-verbal elements such as tone of voice and body language, which contribute significantly to the overall message. This holistic approach allows listeners to accurately respond and engage in meaningful dialogue, leading to clearer communication and mutual understanding.

In contrast, while understanding the emotional tone of the speaker, catching every word, or making judgments about the speaker's style can be important aspects of listening, they do not collectively encapsulate the broader and deeper comprehension that "listening for total meaning" seeks to achieve. It focuses instead on the synthesis of information to grasp not just what is said, but the intent and significance behind it.