Drawing on 35 years of experience as a psychoanalyst and family therapist, Nichols (psychology, College of William and Mary) explains secrets of successful communication that will help readers reduce arguments, get uncommunicative people to open up, and get through to people who never seem to listen. He explains why listening is so important in our lives, and explores the hidden assumptions, unconscious needs, and emotional reactions that are the real reasons people don"t listen. He gives techniques for controlling emotional reactivity to become a better listener and make oneself heard, and explores the dynamics of listening between intimate partners, families, friends, and people at work. Chapter exercises give readers a chance to practice techniques. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)