Personality Characteristics of Effective Listeners: A Five Factor Perspective

Abstract

This study examined the personality characteristics of effective listeners using the Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI), an assessment instrument based on the Five Factor Model, and the Watson-Barker Listening Test (WBLT). One hundred and twenty five undergraduate students (33 men, 92 women) participated in the study and completed the paper-and-pencil self-report measures in their classrooms. A significant correlation was found between the School Success Scale of the HPI and the WBLT. However, none of the other major scales of the HPI were correlated with and the WBLT. Multiple regression analyses indicated that the major scales of the HPI did not predict any of the dimensions of the WBLT. As predicted the WBLT was related to a measure of empathy but the results did not support the hypothesis that effective listening is related to sensation seeking. The findings suggest that effective listening is more strongly related to social interactions linked to a specific context than to more general traits or disposition.