Which listening style would be best suited for understanding someone's feelings and viewpoints?

Empathetic listening is the most suitable style for understanding someone's feelings and viewpoints because it emphasizes connection and emotional understanding. This listening approach goes beyond merely hearing the words spoken; it involves actively engaging with the speaker's emotions and recognizing their perspective. By practicing empathetic listening, one can respond with empathy and validate the feelings of the other person, which is crucial when discussing sensitive topics or personal experiences.

This style encourages a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves, fostering deeper communication and understanding. Through empathetic listening, listeners are able to grasp not just the content of what is being said but also the underlying feelings and motivations, leading to more meaningful interactions.