What is reflective listening in the context of conflict communication?

Reflective listening is a vital communication technique that focuses on understanding and clarifying what others are expressing during a conversation, especially in the context of conflict. When engaging in reflective listening, one actively listens to the speaker and then paraphrases or restates their message to ensure comprehension. This process not only demonstrates that the listener is paying attention but also provides an opportunity for the speaker to confirm or correct the listener's understanding. By doing so, reflective listening fosters a more positive dialogue and helps in validating the speaker's feelings, ultimately leading to better conflict resolution.

In contrast to this, ignoring what others say would create barriers in communication, making it difficult to resolve conflicts effectively. Making judgments about others' statements can lead to misunderstandings and escalate tensions rather than facilitate constructive conversation. Additionally, while reflective listening may contribute to a smoother conversation flow by ensuring clarity, its primary purpose is not to speed up the conversation but rather to deepen understanding and empathy.