barriers to communication

All of the above barriers to communication may be classed into two broad categories:
 Distortion resulting from inadequate use of language (incorrect grammar, syntax,
overuse of technical/obscure words, ambiguity, etc.) and other communication
skills (analytical approach to/understanding of decoders and the context/
environment within which communication is taking place, choice of appropriate
medium and channel of communication).
 Noise, or interference:
o Physical noise – actual noise that may drown the communication
o “Technical noise” – a failure in the channel of communication
(breakdown of technology/equipment, etc.)
o “Social noise” – personality differences due to upbringing; difference in
perceptions/mentality due to diverse cultural, religious, educational, etc.
backgrounds, bias due to age, sex, social class, status, etc.
o “Psychological noise” – excessive/uncontrolled emotions (anger, fear,
etc.), prejudice, stress, nervous tension, etc.
Summary:
1. Human communication is a very complex dynamic process of human
interaction subject to a multitude of environmental, cultural, etc.,
factors, as well as potential distortion.
2. For the purposes of this course we shall make use of the modified
version of the „information transmission‟ theory, bearing in mind,
however, the implications of the behavioral theory.
3. Transmission model of communication: impulse –
input/encoding/output – relaying through potential distortion on both
sides – decoding – feedback.
4. The concept of effective communication in this context signifies a most
accurate transmission of meaning in the process of human interaction
from the encoder to the decoder that receives an adequate response
(feedback).