Which of the following statements about active listening is true?

• A. Active listening includes eye contact, facing the speaker, nodding, waiting before speaking, repeating information, asking questions, clarifying understanding, focusing on content, ignoring distractions, and remaining still
• B. Active listening requires silent treatment
• C. Active listening is optional in therapy
• D. Active listening is primarily about giving advice

Answer: (A)

Active listening is a set of behaviors that show you are truly hearing and understanding someone. It blends attention, empathy, and clarification to create a space where the speaker feels heard and validated. In practice, you keep eye contact and orient your body toward the speaker to signal you’re focused. Nodding and appropriate facial expressions acknowledge what’s being said without interrupting. Waiting before you respond helps you avoid cutting the other person off and gives them room to finish their thoughts. Paraphrasing or repeating key points checks that you’ve understood correctly and invites the speaker to refine meaning if needed. Asking clarifying questions and restating your understanding demonstrates you’re following both content and emotion, not just hearing words. Staying focused on the message and managing distractions helps you respond accurately and supportively. Together, these behaviors embody active listening in therapy, strengthening rapport and fostering deeper sharing.

The other statements miss essential aspects: the silent treatment shuts down communication, active listening is not optional in therapy, and it isn’t primarily about giving advice but about understanding and reflecting the speaker’s message.