Which of the following is a common barrier to effective listening?

Distractions are indeed a common barrier to effective listening. When a listener is distracted, whether by external noises, visual stimuli, or internal thoughts, their ability to process and retain information diminishes significantly. These distractions can divert attention away from the speaker, making it challenging to fully comprehend the message being conveyed. Effective listening requires focus and concentration; distractions directly impede these essential components, leading to misunderstandings or missed information.

In contrast, active engagement is a positive behavior that enhances listening skills, while clear communication fosters understanding and connection between the speaker and listener. Empathy further enriches the listening experience by allowing the listener to connect on an emotional level, deepening the understanding of the speaker's message. Thus, unlike distractions, these elements contribute to improving communication rather than hindering it.