In the listening process, what is the second stage called?

The second stage of the listening process is known as interpreting. This phase occurs after the initial reception of the auditory signals in the receiving stage. During the interpreting stage, listeners analyze and make sense of the information they have heard. They work to understand the meaning behind the words, consider the context, tone, and non-verbal cues, and begin to believe what the speaker is truly communicating. This stage is crucial because it can significantly influence how a message is understood and processed further. Successful interpretation enables the listener to engage with the information on a deeper level, which is essential for effective communication.

In context, the receiving stage precedes interpreting, where listeners focus primarily on hearing the words spoken. Evaluating follows interpreting and involves critically assessing the message. Responding is the final stage, where listeners provide feedback or reactions to the message received. Each of these stages plays a vital role in the overall listening process, but interpreting is specifically where understanding begins to develop.