What is one of the greatest barriers to effective listening?

Misinterpretation of the message is considered one of the greatest barriers to effective listening because it can significantly distort the intended meaning and lead to misunderstandings. When a listener misinterprets what is being said, they may respond based on incorrect assumptions, which can hinder the communication process and create confusion. Effective listening requires active engagement and understanding, which can be compromised by preconceived notions, biases, or distractions that lead to misinterpretation.

The other aspects listed can also affect listening but do not inherently prevent the listener from grasping the message in the same way. Providing feedback too quickly might result in superficial engagement, focusing too much on body language could distract from the verbal content, and interrupting the speaker disrupts the flow of communication. However, misinterpretation directly impacts comprehension and connection, making it a significant barrier to effective listening.