Which behavior is NOT part of active listening?

Active listening is a crucial communication skill that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said. It encompasses several behaviors that facilitate effective dialogue and connection between speakers.

One key aspect of active listening is maintaining an open and inviting body stance, which helps convey attentiveness and engagement. Similarly, facial gestures—such as nodding or showing expressions that reflect understanding—enhance the listener's involvement and signify that they are following along with the conversation. Additionally, avoiding distractions, such as turning off phones or finding a quiet space, ensures that the listener can focus entirely on the speaker, promoting better comprehension and response.

In contrast, frequently interrupting contradicts the principles of active listening. It disrupts the flow of communication, can create frustration for the speaker, and prevents the listener from fully grasping the message being communicated. The primary goal of active listening is to provide a supportive environment for dialogue, which is undermined by interruptions. Therefore, the behavior that does not align with active listening practices is interrupting frequently.