Which is an example of active listening?

• A. "I" messages
• B. Paraphrasing
• C. Minimal encouragers
• D. Emotional labeling

Answer: (B)

Active listening is shown when you confirm you understood the speaker by restating their message in your own words and inviting correction. Paraphrasing does this directly: you reflect the speaker’s meaning back to them and check for accuracy, which signals engagement and helps prevent miscommunication. It reinforces that you’re processing what was said and gives the speaker a chance to confirm or adjust your understanding.

For example, if someone says they’re overwhelmed with the workload, you might respond, “So you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and could use help prioritizing tasks?” This demonstrates you heard both the content and the intention behind it.

I statements are about expressing your own feelings, not about reflecting the other person’s message. Minimal encouragers (like “uh-huh”) show you’re listening but don’t verify understanding. Emotional labeling names the emotion the speaker is feeling, which can build empathy, but it doesn’t confirm you’ve captured the actual message or meaning. Paraphrasing best embodies the core of active listening by ensuring accurate understanding and inviting clarification.