Tell Me More: A Qualitative, Bounded Case Study on Reflective Listening
Abstract
Carl Rogers coined reflective listening in the 1950s as part of client-focused psychotherapy. Since then, researchers have applied reflective listening to a variety of interpersonal and organizational environments to demonstrate empathy through "other-centered" behavior. This study used a communication course teaching a reflective listening model (Our Community Listens) to explore the influence of learning reflective listening in the Michigan Air National Guard (MI ANG). As a qualitative, bounded case study using semi-structured interviews, the researcher explored the connection between reflective listening experiences after attending the course, empathy, US Air Force leadership development, and the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Strategic Plan. The results of this exploratory study indicated that participants experienced a unique, different, and introspective course which led them on a journey through self-discovery and self-regulation to other-centered behavior. They transferred these skills to a variety of contexts after attending the course, such as their military and civilian workplace and to their families. Participants also felt organizational and cultural barriers existed that impeded reflective listening from expanding past interpersonal interaction and small teams to larger unit culture. The researcher provided recommendations to improve strategic planning, execution, and reception by members, as well as future research opportunities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1212002
Entities
People
- Jennifer Lee C. Rudolph
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College