What is the primary goal of active listening in communication?

The primary goal of active listening in communication is to fully concentrate and understand the speaker's message. This involves more than just hearing the words spoken; it requires engagement and an intention to comprehend the underlying thoughts, feelings, and intentions behind those words. Active listening promotes deeper understanding and connection between the speaker and the listener, fostering a supportive environment where meaningful dialogue can occur.

While providing feedback to the speaker is an important aspect of communication, in the context of active listening, it is secondary to the primary focus of understanding. Similarly, preparing a response while the speaker is talking detracts from the listener's ability to absorb the message, as it shifts attention away from the speaker. Lastly, reflecting back the speaker's words verbatim can be useful in certain contexts, but true active listening is about grasping the essence of the message rather than simply repeating it. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of understanding as the central goal of active listening.