Final answer:
Active listening is the skill of focusing intently on what a speaker is saying with the aim of truly understanding their message, both verbal and non-verbal, which involves listening without judgment, providing reassuring cues, and being empathetic.
Step-by-step explanation:
Active listening is the skill of focusing on understanding what a speaker is saying as they are saying it. This involves listening to the emotions, ideas, body language, and tone without judgment and interruption. This means being fully present, showing empathy, and making the speaker feel understood. We should not be distracted by our own thoughts or planning what to say next, but rather focus on the speaker's message to build a bridge of communication. Active listening also implies an awareness of the speaker's non-verbal cues and, before responding, taking the time to process and understand the speaker's perspective, removing one's own biases from the interaction. Effective communication is not just about sharing our own thoughts, but also about being receptive and understanding the thoughts of others. The underlying principle is a mutual exchange of ideas and feelings, where both parties feel heard and respected. To be an active and engaged listener, the listener should use affirmative gestures and expressions to convey their attention and empathy.