Question

4 - being a serious and open-minded listener
learning objective: explain how resisting distractions, listening actively, and practicing open - mindedness can increase listening effectiveness.
what is the difference between active listening and judgmental listening?
a.) active listening involves understanding the speakers emotions, while judgmental listening exercises empathy.
b.) active listening provides feedback to the speaker, while judgmental listening only determines right or wrong.
c.) active listening is used to improve personal relationships, while judgmental listening is used to foster understanding.
d.) active listening is focused on internalizing the speakers message, while judgmental listening is focused on the speakers behavior.

Explanation:

Active listening involves engaging with the speaker, providing feedback (like paraphrasing, asking clarifying questions) to show understanding. Judgmental listening is more about evaluating the speaker's words (deciding if they are right/wrong, good/bad) rather than focusing on understanding the message holistically.

• Option a: Incorrect. Active listening does involve empathy (understanding emotions), but judgmental listening is not about exercising empathy.
• Option b: Correct. Active listening gives feedback (e.g., “So what you’re saying is...”) to confirm understanding. Judgmental listening is more about making value - based decisions (right/wrong) about the speaker’s content.
• Option c: Incorrect. Active listening can improve relationships (as it shows respect and understanding), but judgmental listening is not about fostering understanding. Judgmental listening often creates barriers to understanding.
• Option d: Incorrect. Active listening is about understanding the message (both content and emotions), not just internalizing. Judgmental listening is not focused on behavior; it's focused on evaluating the message.

Answer:

B. Active listening provides feedback to the speaker, while judgmental listening only determines right or wrong.