Active listening in communication is characterized by which of the following actions?

Active listening in communication involves engaging with the speaker beyond just hearing their words. One key aspect of this process is asking clarifying questions. By doing so, the listener demonstrates attentiveness and a genuine desire to understand the speaker’s message more completely. Clarifying questions help to unpack complex ideas, encourage elaboration, and ensure that both parties are on the same page, which enhances mutual understanding.

In active listening, it's essential to engage in a back-and-forth exchange that fosters deeper comprehension. By asking questions, the listener actively involves themselves in the conversation, which can also help to clarify points that may be vague or confusing.

Other actions, while they may contribute to an overall good communication environment, don't characterize active listening as effectively. For instance, ignoring distractions is important for maintaining focus but doesn't inherently demonstrate engagement with the speaker. Responding with personal anecdotes can shift the focus away from the speaker's experience rather than helping to clarify it. Focusing only on the speaker's words may miss the underlying emotions or intentions, which are often conveyed through tone and body language, thereby reducing the listener’s overall connection to the communication process.