Citation

Abrahams H. J. Gender Based Viol. 2017; 1(2): 253-259.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Centre for Gender and Violence Research, University of Bristol, Publisher Policy Press)

DOI

10.1332/239868017X15090095938377

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Too often, the skill of really listening to another person's story does not receive the consideration and training it deserves. Yet skilled and sensitive listening in a research context can not only produce a wealth of information and in depth knowledge, but also enrich both the researcher
and the person they are talking with. This paper discusses the barriers to communication faced by those who experience gender based violence, the essential elements in building trust and encouraging informants and the challenges and rewards of actively listening to those whom we encounter
in qualitative research.

Key Messages
• Women who experience gender based violence want their voices to be heard, but face barriers of fear and self-doubt. • Active listening requires a total focus on the interviewee, the use of empathy and the interpretation
of non-verbal clues in order to encourage the free flow of conversation. • Reciprocity and consideration of the impact of the interview is an essential part of ethical and sensitive interviewing.

Language: en

Keywords

ACTIVE LISTENING; EMPATHY; IMPACT; RECIPROCITY