What technique involves asking questions that are intended to lead to deeper understanding?

The technique that involves asking questions to encourage deeper understanding is probing. Probing questions are designed to elicit more detailed responses or to clarify points, pushing the conversation beyond surface-level answers. This technique helps to uncover underlying thoughts, motivations, or meanings, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of the topic at hand. Effective probing can facilitate a more engaged dialogue, encouraging the other person to express their thoughts and feelings more thoroughly.

In contrast, the other techniques mentioned focus on different aspects of communication. Parroting involves repeating back what someone has said, which does not advance understanding. Summarizing condenses the conversation into key points but lacks the depth of inquiry found in probing. Reflective listening is about mirroring the speaker's sentiments and feelings, rather than digging deeper into their content. Each has its place in communication, but probing specifically aims for deeper insight.