What is a defining characteristic of selective listeners?

Selective listeners are characterized by their tendency to filter out messages that do not hold their interest. This means that they are more likely to focus on specific information that they find relevant or engaging while disregarding other details that do not capture their attention. This selectivity can be beneficial in situations where individuals need to prioritize certain information over others, allowing them to concentrate on what they deem important.

The other options illustrate different listening behaviors that do not align with the concept of selective listening. For instance, retaining all information implies an ability to process and remember everything without filtering, which is contrary to the selective approach. Engaging with every message would require a more comprehensive listening skill that goes beyond selective engagement, indicating a more active and inclusive listening style. Additionally, seeking clarification for all statements suggests a level of engagement and attention to detail that selective listeners may not exhibit, as they choose to prioritize only certain topics or messages that interest them.