Barrier of communication:
A communication barrier is anything that comes in the way of receiving and understanding messages that one sends to another to convey his ideas, thoughts, or any other kind of information. These various barriers of communication block or interfere with the message that someone is trying to send.
There are numerous barriers to effective communication that can come in the way. It happens because the message sent by the sender might not be understood exactly as it is meant to be. It can get distorted during the communication exchange. These different types of communication barriers can come at any stage in the process of communication. It can come because of the bias or stereotyping and generalization that exists in the communication.
A skilled communicator must pay attention to the different types of barriers to effective communication and try to prevent them. These barriers of communication skills can be overcome by active listening, reflection, etc. The communicator must seek feedback from the receiver of the information to check if the message was understood in its true sense. Listed below are some of the common barriers to effective communication.
Using Jargon - If one uses unfamiliar terms or over-complicated technical terms, it could not be understood well.
Lack of Attention or Interest - If the message is irrelevant to the receiver or there are distractions around (like others speaking at the same time) then the message might not be communicated properly.
Perception Difference - If two people see things differently then their viewpoints might come in the way of deciphering the message correctly.
Physical Disabilities - If the receiver has hearing problems, or the speaker has speech disabilities, then communication will not be effective. It will distort the message.
Emotional Barriers - Sensitive topics make it difficult for the speaker or the receiver to engage properly in the communication exchange. It could also be that some people are not comfortable expressing themselves; hence their words might not reflect the true meaning of what they want to convey. Topics that may be taboo or off-limits for some people are politics, religion, mental or physical disabilities, racism, sexuality, and any other unpopular options.
The Difference in Culture - Social interactions have different norms in different cultures. For example, the idea of space exists in some cultures and social settings but not in the same form in others. These cultural differences could prevent effective communication.
Physical Barriers to Communication - A face-to-face communication has a lot of parts to the communication than just the words. Facial expressions, body language, gestures, etc. are also involved in the whole communication process. If you can’t see the person, then some messages might get lost. Text messages, phone calls, etc. are some of the technological ways of communicating which lack the effect of a personal meeting.
Language Difference - The difference in dialects of different regions or unfamiliar accents can make it difficult to understand the message sent.
Prejudices - Most people have preconceived notions about many things; hence they hear only what they want to listen, not what is being said. These false assumptions and stereotyping lead to barriers in communication.