Which listening style is most involved and seeks to empathize with the speaker's feelings?

The most involved listening style that seeks to empathize with the speaker's feelings is active listening. This approach goes beyond merely hearing the words being spoken; it requires the listener to fully engage with the speaker. Active listening involves paying close attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues, reflecting on the speaker's emotions, and responding appropriately to show understanding and empathy. This connection can help build trust and rapport between the speaker and the listener, making it an essential skill in effective communication.

In contrast, passive listening suggests a more detached approach where the listener does not actively engage or respond to the speaker. Selective listening involves filtering out parts of the conversation, often leading to misunderstandings, while critical listening focuses on evaluating and analyzing the information provided, which may not foster the emotional connection that active listening does.