Which item is NOT typically considered part of active listening?

• A. Listening to understand
• B. Validating the speaker's experience
• C. Judging the speaker's intent
• D. Asking clarifying questions

Answer: (C)

Active listening is about focusing on understanding the speaker and responding in a way that shows empathy and clarity. It involves listening to understand, validating the speaker's experience, and asking clarifying questions to ensure you grasp the message accurately. Judging the speaker's intent shifts the focus to motives and evaluation rather than understanding, which can shut down open communication and erode trust. Because of that, judging the speaker’s intent is not typically considered part of active listening.