Question

After a lengthy meeting with the boss and several of his coworkers, Alex asked his friend Jeff if he was concerned about the number of layoffs that his boss said were coming. Jeff looked puzzled for a moment before telling Alex that he wasn't sure when exactly their boss had said to expect layoffs. That exchange reflects which of the following myths of listening:

A. All listeners hear the same thing.
B. Listening is natural and effortless.
C. Hearing is the same as listening.
D. People vividly recall information that they hear

Answer 1

Answer: All listeners hear the same thing.

Explanation: Although Alex and Jeff were present at the meeting, Jeff seemed not to be certain whether their boss made mention that they should expect layoffs.

Listening is the process of making sense of others' spoken messages. i.e hang on to every word by constructing meaning to what you hear. Obviously in this case, Jeff was giving a different meaning to what he heard the boss say.

This debunks the myth that every one listening hears the same thing .