Which of the following describes barriers to effective interaction?

Effective interaction relies heavily on clear communication and understanding between individuals, and certain behaviors can hinder this process. The correct choice highlights two key barriers: competitive interrupting and content-only response.

Competitive interrupting refers to the tendency of individuals to speak over each other or interrupt during conversations, which can disrupt the flow of communication. This behavior often indicates that one party is more focused on asserting their own point rather than listening to the other. It can lead to frustration and misunderstanding, as the essence of the discussion becomes lost when parties do not listen to each other.

A content-only response exemplifies a lack of depth in communication. This type of response focuses solely on the factual information being presented, without acknowledging the emotional or relational aspects of the conversation. When individuals respond this way, they may miss the nuances of the discussion, leading to a disconnect and failing to address the emotional needs of the participants.

In contrast, the other choices present actions that promote effective interaction. Quality questions and clarifying feedback enhance understanding, while nonverbal communication and paraphrasing provide additional layers of meaning and affirmation in interactions. Emotional expression and empathy also facilitate deeper connections and understanding among participants, further supporting effective interpersonal communication.