What is a positive outcome of practicing active listening?

Practicing active listening has several positive outcomes, and one of the most significant is that it reduces misunderstandings. When individuals engage in active listening, they fully concentrate on the speaker, understand the message being conveyed, and respond thoughtfully. This process involves not just hearing the words but also interpreting the emotions and intentions behind them.

Active listening encourages open communication, allowing for clarifying questions and feedback, which helps ensure that both parties have a mutual understanding of the conversation. This is crucial in interpersonal interactions, as it fosters a collaborative environment where individuals feel heard and valued, ultimately minimizing the chances of misinterpretation or conflict.

The other options do not align with the benefits of active listening. Creating emotional barriers suggests a breakdown in communication rather than improvement, while distractions and biases hinder clarity and understanding, which are contrary to the goals of active listening.