Which gesture best shows you are listening?

• A. Looking away
• B. Leaning forward slightly
• C. Cross arms
• D. Tap foot

Answer: (B)

Active listening is shown by your body language as you respond to someone. Leaning forward slightly communicates that you are attentive, engaged, and ready to hear what they’re saying. In healthcare or any interpersonal setting, this posture helps the speaker feel understood and can improve the accuracy of information you gather.

Looking away can signal distraction, crossing arms can come across as defensive or closed off, and tapping a foot often shows restlessness or impatience. So the forward-leaning posture is the clearest cue that you are listening closely, especially when paired with appropriate eye contact and nods.