Active listening, a method which owes its development to Thomas Gordon, is an essential listening method in communication. It is a type of listening where the listener gives feedback to the speaker in the context of content and emotions. In other words, active listening is not about repeating the speaker's exact words, but rather about allowing the listener to let the speaker know and fully understand them by paraphrasing the speaker's words, accepting the speaker's feelings and stimulating the speaker to explore these thoughts and feelings. Active listening is a powerful method and suitable for many different situations. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay For example, a person going through a traumatic or painful situation is not looking for solution messages from their listener; messages that convey to the speaker what they should do or feel in that particular situation. The listener is not in his situation and cannot provide solutions, because he cannot, at that moment, put himself in the speaker's place. Furthermore, the speaker in this case is not looking for suggestions, but rather comfort that someone can sympathize with them and understand them. Active listening is therefore perfect for situations where the speaker is seeking comfort from someone who truly understands and listens. Rather than telling your friend whose grandmother just died, that don't worry, she's in a better place, and that she was suffering anyway, and that it's better that way, with active listening , sounds like your grandmother was a super woman, and I remember the strong bond you had, I'm sorry and I feel for you, or something. Something letting her know that you understand where she's coming from and that you agree or disagree with her.