Barriers to communication:

Effective communication is the key of achieving success in the professional

field. Communication is said to be effective when the feedback of the
message sent is the same as desired by the sender. Sometimes the
information conveyed is not understood completely by the receivers.
Because of various factors which hinder the process of communication are
known as Barriers to communication.

Types of Barriers to communication:

1.Physical Barrier: This occurs when communication is hindered due to
physical disturbances. The distracting element found in the surrounding
environment that does not allow proper communication is termed as
physical barrier. Some physical barriers are –
 Noise
 Environmental discomfort
 Invisibility
 Distraction and Ill health
 Insufficiently insulated rooms
 Poor lighting

2. Psychological Barrier: When a person is not able to communicate

effectively because of mental disturbances, it is known as psychological
barrier, Anxiety, fear, stress and ego are some of the psychological
barriers. People with a closed mind are very difficult to communicate with
as they are not prepared to consider the opinions of others and have their
own prejudices.

3. Semantic (Language) Barrier: When communication is disrupted

because of linguistic inabilities, it is known as semantic barrier. Due to
regional differences and differences in accent, we are not always able to
comprehend the message conveyed by the sender. Different languages are
spoken at different places. Therefore, in oral communication, accent and
pronunciation are not always understood clearly.
Some semantic barriers are –
 Use of unsuitable words.
 Improper sentence formation
 Lack of comprehension
 Not aware of different meanings of words
 Imprecise and ambiguous sentences.

4. Organizational Barrier: Every organization has its own structure and

communication techniques. Rigid hierarchy and complexity of structure
causes communication barriers.
Some organization barriers are –
 Long chain of command
 Negative attitude in the work place
 Improper channel of communication.

5. Interpersonal Barriers: Tastes, habits, attitudes, and preferences might

differ from individual to individual. These differences might become a
reason for a gap in communication. These barriers bring out limitations in
the process of communication and might hinder the growth of an
individual’s as well as an organization.

Some interpersonal barriers are:-

(a) Culture differences: People belonging to different cultures have
different food habits, tastes and preferences. They might not want to
interact with people from other cultures and this might deter the process
of communication.
(b) Individual differences: No two people are similar. They are different in
their thoughts, attitudes and personality. Due to these individual
differences people might not feel comfortable and compatible with each
other resulting into miscommunication. Some reasons for individual
differences are:-
 Attitude
 Perception
 Personality
 Prejudices
(c) Emotions & feelings
(d) Listening skills
 Overcoming Barriers to Communication

Barrier Methods to overcome Barrier

Physical 1.Make suitable seating
arrangement
2. Ensure audibility and visibility.
3. Provide environmental comfort.
4. Maintain proper posture and good
health.
Psychological 1.Support decision Making
2.Develop trust and confidence
3. Direct it to a purpose.
4. Call attention and motivate the
listener.
Semantic 1.Use simple and precise language
2.Use less verbalism
3.Avoid ambiguous and abstract
words
4. Employ different methods of
communication.
Organizational 1. Make it a two way process.
2. Establish feedback system.
3. Avoid unnecessary information.
4. Purposeful communication.

Interpersonal 1. Clarity in emotional

expression.
2. Explain the importance of
message.
3. Prefer positive attitude.
4. Attentive listening with full
concentration.