Question

Which of the following are reasons that defensive comments tend to end listening? (Choose every
correct answer.)
They prematurely move attention from the speaker to the listener.
They typically provide a solution to the problem being discussed.
They lead to a reduction in trust and block a truthful exchange of information.
They indicate that the listener has adopted a learner mind-set.

Answer 1

Correct answers:
- They prematurely move attention from the speaker to the listener.
- They lead to a reduction in trust and block a truthful exchange of information.

Explanation: Defensive comments shift the focus away from the speaker’s concerns and signal self-protection, which shuts down open communication and reduces trust. They do not indicate a learner mind-set, and merely offering a solution is not the defining reason defensive comments end listening.