Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding effective group discussions?

The statement about active listening being the process of focusing entirely on the speaker is indeed true. Active listening is a crucial skill in effective group discussions as it entails not just hearing the words being said but fully engaging with the message. This involves paying attention to non-verbal cues, understanding the speaker's intent, and providing feedback, which encourages an open and inclusive dialogue. By focusing entirely on the speaker, participants demonstrate respect and validation, which can foster a more collaborative environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

In contrast, other options suggest behaviors that are detrimental to effective communication. Talking over others can create a hostile environment and discourage participation, while asserting that only dominant personalities should lead discussions undermines the contributions of diverse voices and limits creativity and collaboration. Additionally, minimizing contributions contradicts the fundamental principle of group discussions, which is to leverage the insights and perspectives of all participants to achieve richer outcomes.