Which technique best describes active listening?

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully engaging with the speaker to understand their message in depth. This means not only hearing the words being spoken but also paying attention to the emotional tone and non-verbal cues. The second option captures this essence perfectly, as it emphasizes the use of methods that enable the listener to grasp the complete message conveyed by the speaker. This could involve asking clarifying questions, paraphrasing what was said, or providing feedback that indicates comprehension.

The focus of active listening is to create a mutual understanding and a supportive environment for dialogue, which enhances communication effectiveness. In contrast, repeating what was said verbatim does not necessarily indicate understanding; it merely shows that the listener can echo words without comprehension. Interjecting personal opinions disrupts the flow of conversation and distracts from the speaker's message, undermining the purpose of active engagement. Lastly, nodding without verbal acknowledgment may convey a semblance of attentiveness, but it does not contribute to a deeper understanding or engagement with the conversation. Thus, emphasizing techniques that facilitate comprehension is the hallmark of active listening.