BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Interrupting
Changing the subject
Giving advice
Talking down
Making light of the problem
Name calling
Assuming what the problem is
Not seeking clarification
Yelling
Threatening
Blaming
Encouraging guilty feelings
Accusatory remarks
Bringing up the past

GUIDELINES FOR GOOD LISTENING

  1. Maintain eye contact.
  2. Avoid thinking of a reply while the other person is still talking.
  3. Avoid jumping to conclusions.
  4. Clarify thoughts and feelings for the other person.
  5. Pay attention to what the other person is saying.
  6. Don't interrupt.
  7. Nod, say "uh huh" or "go on" to encourage the other person to continue.

FEELING WORDS

Angry
Appreciative
Bored
Critical
Disappointed
Dissatisfied
Encouraged
Frustrated
Guilty
Indifference
Jealous
Pleased
Restless
Scared
  Tense
Annoyed
Ashamed
Cheerful
Delighted
Discouraged
Eager
Envious
Gloomy
Happy
Interested
Loving
Proud
Sad
  Terrified
Anxious
Astonished
Contented
Depressed
Disgusted
Embarrassed
Excited
Grumpy
Hateful
Irritated
Miserable
Relaxed
Silly