Which barrier can hinder effective listening in peer recovery?

Assuming you know the speaker's thoughts can significantly hinder effective listening in peer recovery. This barrier prevents a true understanding of the speaker's perspective and experiences. When someone assumes they already know what the other person is thinking or feeling, they may stop actively listening. This can lead to miscommunication, as the listener may not fully grasp the nuances of the speaker's emotions or circumstances.

Effective listening requires an open mind and a willingness to understand the speaker's unique journey. By making assumptions, the listener risks projecting their own experiences onto the speaker, which can distort the actual message being conveyed. In peer recovery, where empathy and validation are crucial, assuming knowledge limits the growth of trust and connection between individuals.

The other options, such as agreeing with the speaker or empathizing with their feelings, generally contribute to effective communication instead of hindering it. Staying focused on what they say is also conducive to understanding and fosters a supportive environment for recovery.