Final answer:
Effective listening requires conscious effort and active engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Effective listening happens without conscious effort' is false.
To be an effective listener, one must consciously engage in the listening process. This involves actively paying attention to the speaker, focusing on their message, and avoiding distractions. Effective listening also requires using nonverbal cues, such as eye contact and nodding, to show the speaker that you are engaged.
By actively participating in the listening process, individuals can improve their understanding of the speaker's message and build stronger relationships based on effective communication.