What is meant by back channeling in conversations?

Back channeling in conversations refers to the practice of using verbal and nonverbal cues to encourage a speaker to continue sharing their thoughts and feelings. This can include phrases such as "I see," "Go on," or nodding to show engagement. These minimal prompts convey interest and support, helping to create a more interactive and supportive conversation environment. By employing back channeling, the listener demonstrates active listening and engagement, which can enhance the connection between the participants in the conversation.

The other options reflect different behaviors that do not capture the essence of back channeling. For instance, interrupting to dominate the conversation goes against the principle of encouraging the speaker. Focusing solely on the literal message overlooks the supportive role that back channeling plays in facilitating a more nuanced and empathetic dialogue. Taking notes is a separate activity that may not contribute to the immediate flow of conversation, as it focuses more on recording information rather than engaging with the speaker. Thus, the emphasis on prompting and encouragement in option B is what makes it the correct choice when defining back channeling.