Final answer:
Active listening encompasses focused attention, interpreting verbal and nonverbal messages, and responding with empathy. It involves eye contact, open body language, and comprehension of the speaker's perspective without judgment or interruption.
Step-by-step explanation:
Active listening involves several essential components that enable deeper understanding and emotional connection with the speaker. It includes paying full attention to the speaker, using all relevant senses, and engaging in behaviors that demonstrate you are listening and understanding the message. Key elements of active listening include:
- Eye contact to show engagement and alertness,
- Body language that is open and receptive rather than closed, and
- Monitoring and responding to verbal and nonverbal messages from the speaker.
Engaging in active listening means not judging or interrupting the speaker. Instead, it involves expressing empathy and understanding their perspective and emotions. This can be indicated through empathetic gestures and appropriate facial expressions.