What term describes the act of focusing on formulating a response rather than actively listening?

The term that accurately describes the act of focusing on formulating a response rather than actively listening is rehearsing. This concept emphasizes how a listener may become preoccupied with crafting a reply instead of fully understanding the speaker's message. When a person is rehearsing, they may miss important information or context that could contribute to a more effective dialogue and better understanding between the parties involved.

Engaging refers to being actively involved and participating in the conversation, which contrasts with the passive act of rehearsing a response. Interrupting suggests a disruption in the flow of conversation, where one speaker interjects before another has completed their thoughts, highlighting a lack of patience rather than a focus on response formulation. Summarizing involves restating what someone has said to confirm understanding, which is a practice that actually facilitates active listening rather than detracting from it.

Thus, rehearsing specifically captures the essence of prioritizing one's own response over comprehension of the speaker's intent and message.