Power of active listening in life and paediatric dentistry

In a world where the outpouring of information predominates, listening to the actual essence while being completely attuned has indeed become rare, yet remains vitally important.

From the perspective of behavioural psychology, third-level listening or active listening is a type of listening that goes beyond just hearing the words. It involves deep awareness of emotional, psychological, physiological, and environmental factors that play a key role in any conversation.

The primary level of listening stays focused on the words, though subtle importance is given to the silent pauses. The secondary level emphasises shifts in body language, where underlying psychological processes are exhibited through gestures, posture, and the overall demeanour of the people involved in the conversation.

The third-level or the art of actual listening beyond words transcends to the fourth dimension, where experience, cognitive, and behavioural cues are considered. The listener is completely mindful and present in the moment.

The energy field, aura, or vibe resonates with this level. One can appreciate another person’s lived experiences, which helps build trust and rapport, leading to therapeutic, mental, and emotional progress.

Psychological tools in life and in peadiatric dentistry

As a Dubai-based paediatric dentist, I have been fortunate to incorporate several tools from human psychology into my routine dental practice, where Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) allows immediate connection with what lies beneath the surface of the behavioural iceberg.

Child Development Psychology fosters the understanding of human brain function at the cellular level; and the Early Years Foundation Stage highlights the understanding of self-efficacy and resilience.

The first consultation appointment is the foundation of both children’s and parents’ rapport and therefore truly deserves the active display of all these tools. Third-level listening then comes as a natural by-product while all the structural elements from human psychology are being used.

From a scientific perspective, mirror neurons play an important role in matching or ‘attuning’ to the other person’s emotional state, thereby creating a sense of empathy. If one feels anxious, it’s best to subtly shift our own energy to a calm, grounded state to help stabilise the emotional exchange. This can be seen as a form of ‘emotional regulation’ and energy flow that helps balance the interaction.

As per the laws of quantum physics, energy can flow from lower to higher levels through absorption. In a paediatric clinic, when children are in a low emotional state, the higher energy vibes of the clinician certainly uplift the child, allowing them to feel, listen, and cope better.

Third-level listening ensures that we understand the broader context of exhibited behaviours, including societal, familial, and personal influences, and can therefore tailor interventions that are more likely to lead to lasting change. This approach opens doors to a holistic view, rather than addressing isolated concerns. Practising this in-depth listening creates a transition inside that can help pave the way for more effective responses.

Deep internal journeys do not happen in an instant, but there is always room to keep tapping at little windows. Sometimes it’s just little windows of good listening that shine tiny streaks of light, which then create a world of difference.

Happy Republic Day!

Laser Specialist Paediatric Dentist, NLP Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, Child Development Psychologist

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