Final answer:
Listeners primarily rely on non-verbal signals, such as body language and tone of voice, to understand confusing messages. These cues, along with contextual clues, provide insight that may not be conveyed through words alone.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a listener receives a confusing message, they will likely rely on non-verbal signals for a better understanding. These include body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, which can provide significant insights into the speaker's true message. Non-verbal cues are often more difficult to consciously control and therefore, can be more telling than verbal cues. Additionally, contextual clues also play a crucial role in understanding communications, as they help to interpret messages based on the situation and environment in which they are delivered. For example, if someone says 'fine' with a smile and relaxed posture, the non-verbal cues suggest they are genuinely okay. However, if they say 'fine' while frowning and crossing their arms, the non-verbal signals suggest otherwise, indicating that they might not be fine. In cases where the verbal information is confusing or contradictory, people will often look beyond the words themselves and assess these non-verbal indicators to grasp the true meaning.