This framework describes 13 different types of listening, and what they hear in each type. These listening styles could contribute to Plot Twisters' gifts, hats, and recipes by discerning various meanings one can get from a conversation and the characteristics one needs to get those meanings.
Discriminative listening is when we simply identify sound differences. It's the most basic form of language, the starting point of learning from when we're newborn.
Biased listening is when we only hear what we want to hear, misinterpreting other information based on stereotypes and biases we hold.
Evaluative listening is when we critically assess what we hear. We judge for truth, worthiness, and righteousness. This often occurs during persuasion; it's synonymous with critical, judgemental, or interpretive listening.
Appreciative listening is when we listen for things that will appreciate—in other words, we look for things we'll find value in to meet our needs or goals. The article cites listening to music, inspiring poetry or people as appreciative listening.
Sympathetic listening is when we listen to show concern for the speaker. As the article words it, we "express sorrow at their ills and happiness at their joys." We listen to listen.
Empathetic listening is when we listen to more deeply understand the speaker, a step beyond sympathetic listening. We tune into emotional signals to feel what they're feeling.
Therapeutic listening is not only empathetic listening, but listening to find places to better understand or make changes in some way. We seek to "diagnose problems" and guide the speaker in positive directions.
Relationship listening is when we listen to establish trust. The article distinguishes this as when lovers converse for hours, and a similar conversation with anyone else wouldn't have much meaning. We listen to establish trust; it's often seen in negotiations as well.
False listening is when we listen but don't hear much at all. We respond by smiling, nodding, grunting, or filler words, but it's mostly to leave a good impression on the speaker. The article attributes this type of listening to politicians and one-sided conversations in romantic relationships.
Initial listening is when we spend more time thinking about how we want to respond more than listening to what the speaker has to say.
Selective listening is when we listen for things we had in mind before the conversation started, and ignore everything else. Like a tabloid reporter finding a quote to take out of context.
Partial listening is when we listen with good intent, but get distracted. The article describes most everyday conversation as this.
Full listening is when we listen carefully and attentively, perhaps for a long period of time. We seek to absorb all information being spoken. Think of a school lecture or an important meeting.
Deep listening is not only listening carefully and attentively to absorb full content, but also seeking to understand the "whole" of whomever's speaking.