There are three sub-processes of listening: reciprocal listening which involves alternating roles as speaker and listener in dialogues, nonreciprocal listening which involves a one-way role as listener such as listening to monologues, and reasons for listening which involves intentionally focusing on understanding the meaning and purpose of what a speaker expresses rather than just hearing sounds. Listening requires effort to understand while hearing is an accidental brain response that requires no effort. Effective listening is active, focused, and concentrated for the purpose of understanding the speaker.