What does effective active listening require?

Effective active listening requires full concentration on the speaker. This means being fully present and engaged during the conversation, which allows the listener to truly understand the speaker's message. Active listening goes beyond just hearing the words being said; it involves recognizing the emotions and intentions behind those words. By focusing intently on the speaker, an active listener can respond appropriately, ask relevant questions, and provide supportive feedback, thereby fostering a deeper connection and understanding.

In contrast, options like interrupting to make points, avoiding eye contact, and daydreaming during conversations are behaviors that undermine effective communication. They distract from the speaker's message and signal disinterest or disrespect, which can hinder the overall interaction.