What is the term for a form of active listening that includes replicating body language?

The term for a form of active listening that involves replicating body language is known as mirroring. This technique enhances communication by building rapport and making the speaker feel understood and validated. When a listener mirrors the physical gestures, posture, or facial expressions of the person they are communicating with, it can create a subconscious connection between the two individuals. This connection often leads to increased trust and openness in the conversation.

Mirroring is an essential skill in various fields, including loss prevention, as it can help in de-escalating situations and establishing a positive interaction with customers or colleagues. By engaging in mirroring, the listener demonstrates attentiveness and empathy, which can be critical when addressing sensitive topics or concerns related to loss prevention strategies.

Other terms, such as echoing and reflecting, refer to different communication techniques. Echoing generally involves repeating what has been said verbatim, while reflecting is about paraphrasing the speaker’s messages to show understanding. Connecting, while an important aspect of communication, does not specifically refer to the replication of body language. Thus, mirroring is the most accurate term for the practice described in the question.