Listening Apprehension

image
ALEX TRIES to be helpful in offering Gigi candid advice about her romantic troubles, but her defensive response deters him from sharing his opinion in the future. © New Line Cinema/Courtesy Everett Collection

You may know that many people suffer from public speaking anxiety. But did you know that many people also struggle with concerns about listening? Listening apprehension (also called receiver apprehension) is a state of uneasiness, anxiety, fear, or dread associated with a listening opportunity. Listening to your boss reprimand you about your job performance, listening to someone else’s personal problems, or listening to highly detailed or statistical information can trigger listening apprehension, which compromises your ability to concentrate on or remember what is said (Ayres, Wilcox, & Ayers, 1995).

Students with high listening anxiety have lower motivation to process information in the classroom, which can affect their overall academic performance (Schrodt, Wheeless, & Ptacek, 2000). So it is important to assess your ability to listen effectively and to spend time developing your listening confidence. What do you think about your own listening apprehension? You may have a better idea after you complete the self-assessment.