Video response

In Part 1, identify Mimi’s listening barriers by referring to pp. 80-81 of the textbook. In
your response, answer this question: Besides the physical barriers, for example, Mimi was
putting on makeup in the video, identify Mimi’s biases and prejudices, mental distractions,
lack of appropriate focus, and premature judgment. Give specific examples of these four
listening barriers in your response.

Biases and prejudice: Mimi is partial and biased about the situation that Helen is in, she goes
ahead to support the other people who were complaining about Helen saying that eating a
hardboiled egg is similar to eating a tuna sandwich. She is biased about what she listens rather
than having an open mind.

Mental distractions: Mimi was mentally distracted, and it shows when she assumes that Helen
has worked in that company for three weeks, yet she had stayed there for two years.

Lack of appropriate focus: Mimi does not focus on what she is being told. When Mimi advices
Helen to move into a different apartment, she gets surprised by wondering how she cannot afford
rent

Premature judgment: Mimi judges prematurely about the complained that Helen has about
someone complained about her. She thinks that with the time she has stayed there, someone
ought to complain about her. Mimi also judges her prematurely, stating that nobody sends her
anything, not even Amazon.

In Part 2, apply techniques of active listening as if you were Mimi when Helen shared her
concerns. First, Helen was worried about someone complaining about her eating hard
boiled eggs at work every morning. For this concern, demonstrate active listening by
expressing understanding of Helen’s feelings.

I think it is insensitive that someone had to complain about you eating hard-boiled eggs. It is not
so much of a big deal, and they should have told you how they felt so that you two would find a
solution for the problem that a person has. I would advise you not to worry about anything. I am
here for you; we shall solve it, okay.

Second, Helen was worried about not being liked at work. Demonstrate active listening by
asking Helen at least two questions about her concern to show support.

Why do you think that they do not like?

Has anyone made you feel bad about yourself?

Third, Helen was worried about her noisy neighbours upstairs. For this concern,
demonstrate active listening by paraphrasing what Helen said about her neighbours.
They made noise for three days in a row, that so insensitive of the people around them. You
couldn't sleep, I'm so sorry about that