Which of the following can negatively impact effective listening?

Not showing interest can significantly undermine effective listening. When a listener appears disinterested, it conveys a lack of concern for the speaker's message, which can discourage open communication. Effective listening requires active engagement, which includes not only attentiveness to the speaker's words but also an emotional connection to the content being discussed.

Demonstrating interest typically involves verbal affirmations and nonverbal signals that indicate attentiveness, such as nodding or maintaining eye contact, which serve to encourage and validate the speaker. If a listener fails to show interest, the speaker may feel undervalued or demotivated, which can lead to a breakdown in communication.

Engaging in effective listening is crucial in healthcare settings, as it fosters better understanding and rapport between caregivers and patients. This is essential for providing high-quality care and ensuring that the needs and concerns of patients are fully addressed.