Which behavior is recommended to convey attention during an interaction?

• A. Avoid eye contact
• B. Speak loudly
• C. Make direct eye contact
• D. Check your phone

Answer: (C)

Direct eye contact signals that you are paying attention and actively listening, which helps establish engagement, respect, and trust in the conversation. In police interactions, this nonverbal cue supports credibility and aids in reading the other person’s responses and intent by allowing you to notice micro-expressions and shifts in behavior. Avoiding eye contact can make you seem evasive or uninterested; speaking loudly can come across as aggressive rather than attentive; and checking your phone shows distraction and lack of engagement. So, making direct eye contact is the best way to convey attention during an interaction.