Which of the following techniques can contribute to active listening?

• A. Interrupting the speaker to share your own experiences
• B. Avoiding nonverbal cues and remaining silent throughout the conversation
• C. Maintaining eye contact and providing verbal feedback
• D. Focusing on your own thoughts while the other person is talking

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of active listening, which involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the speaker is saying.
2. Recognize that active listening requires engagement through both verbal and nonverbal behaviors, such as maintaining eye contact and providing verbal feedback.
3. Evaluate each option by considering whether it promotes engagement and understanding: interrupting the speaker disrupts the flow and shows lack of attention; avoiding nonverbal cues and silence can signal disinterest; focusing on your own thoughts distracts from the speaker.
4. Identify that maintaining eye contact helps show attentiveness and respect, while providing verbal feedback (like nodding or brief affirmations) encourages the speaker and confirms understanding.
5. Conclude that the technique contributing to active listening is the one that involves maintaining eye contact and providing verbal feedback, as it aligns with the principles of active listening.