Which of the following is an attribute of a good listener?
A a person who pays attention during a conversation
B a person who does not give eye contact
C a person who does not ask questions when they are confused
D a person who dominates the conversation
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A: a person who pays attention during a conversation.
Explanation:
Being a good listener is a vital skill in any conversation, especially in professional settings such as healthcare, where understanding a person’s needs is crucial. Active listening involves more than just hearing the words someone is saying; it requires being fully present and engaged in the conversation. The attributes of a good listener help ensure communication is effective, which fosters understanding, trust, and respect.
- Paying attention (Option A) is fundamental to being a good listener. It means focusing on the speaker without distractions, like checking your phone or letting your mind wander. This shows the speaker that you value their words and are invested in what they are saying. Non-verbal cues such as nodding and maintaining eye contact also reflect attentiveness, signaling that you are actively involved in the conversation. It also helps the listener process the information accurately and engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Lack of eye contact (Option B) is often a sign of disinterest or discomfort. Good listeners maintain appropriate eye contact as it demonstrates focus and respect for the speaker. It encourages the speaker to continue and helps strengthen the connection.
- Not asking questions when confused (Option C) can hinder understanding. A good listener is not afraid to seek clarification if they don’t understand something. Asking questions shows that you are engaged and want to make sure you grasp the full meaning of the conversation. It also helps avoid misunderstandings.
- Dominating the conversation (Option D) is the opposite of being a good listener. A good listener allows the speaker to express themselves fully before responding. Dominating the conversation prevents the speaker from being heard and makes it difficult to build a collaborative, respectful dialogue.
In summary, a good listener actively engages with the speaker by paying attention, asking clarifying questions, and using appropriate body language to show they value the conversation.