Which type of listening is focused on evaluating and forming an opinion about a message?

The type of listening that is centered on evaluating and forming an opinion about a message is critical listening. This form of listening involves not only understanding the content being presented but also analyzing it to determine its validity, reliability, and implications.

In critical listening, the listener actively engages with the speaker's message, questioning its logic, evidence, and conclusions. This allows the listener to make informed judgments about the information being communicated, which is essential in settings where decision-making or assessment of arguments takes place, such as debates, persuasive speeches, or arguments.

Critical listening contrasts with empathic listening, which prioritizes understanding and sharing the feelings of the speaker, active listening that focuses on the overall message while providing feedback, and passive listening, where there is minimal engagement or response to the content presented. Therefore, critical listening is distinctly aimed at evaluation and opinion formation, making it the correct choice for the question.