In the context of effective listening, what does 'responding to feelings' involve?

Responding to feelings involves acknowledging the speaker's emotions, which demonstrates empathy and understanding. When a listener recognizes and validates the emotions being expressed by the speaker, it creates a supportive environment that encourages open communication. This acknowledgment can help the speaker feel heard and appreciated, fostering a deeper connection and making it easier for them to share their thoughts and feelings.

The other options are different techniques that may enhance listening but do not specifically capture the essence of responding to feelings. Repeating what the speaker said can help ensure understanding, but it doesn’t address the emotional aspect. Asking clarifying questions is essential for comprehension, yet it primarily focuses on the content of the message rather than the emotions behind it. Mimicking the speaker’s gestures can create rapport but does not engage with the emotional undercurrents of the conversation. Each of these techniques has its own value, but none are as directly tied to the concept of responding to feelings as acknowledging the speaker's emotions is.