Notes on Communication Barriers

1. Perception and Language

Perception-- People have different ways of seeing and understanding reality. What may be
acceptable for one coming from a different background (social, cultural, etc.), may not
necessarily be “right” or even ethical in others. One example of a difference in perception that
may become a barrier to communication is soup eating. In France and in many Western
countries, slurping the soup and creating a loud sound while eating is unethical, while in Japan,
the loud sound when slurping the soup, including burping, means one appreciates the dinner
and is fully satisfied with the served meal.
Language—Human use language to communicate ideas and form lasting ties or alliances.
Unfortunately, there are times when a form of language may create a rift among people rather
than promote harmony. One example is the use of “cursing words.” In some cultures, this is
simply a form of expression that may even be uttered when someone is overjoyed. In others,
cursing as the word itself implies, is truly offensive.
2. Poor Listening
Poor listening may be due to several factors. It may be due to a physical defect or due to
selective and intentional non-preference to pay attention to the speaker. It is thus important to
note that, when a person fails to understand what has been communicated, it is a cue that the
speaker needs to clarify his/her statement.
3. Emotional Interference – one’s emotion can either cause miscommunication or completely
prevent information from being transmitted. Example is when you do not want to hurt your
friend by telling her the truth about her boyfriend.
4. Cultural Differences – Similar to perception, differences in cultural practices and traditions may
become a barrier to communication. Examples are varying business cultures and acceptable
practices. Americans for example prefer a direct communication style, while the Chinese want a
courteous indirect path to negotiations.
5. Physical Distractions – This pertains to environmental and physical (referring to things outside
the speaker) distractions like loud sounds, defective microphone and even visual distractions.
6. Incorrect Filtering – Miscommunication due to incorrect filtering results from the transfer of
information from one person to another. Example: the company secretary verbally transmitting
information about the new policy of the company. This caused several employees to think the
president is anti-development due to varying interpretations.
7. Information Overload – This becomes a communication barrier when the listener fails to get the
gist of the long information provided. Often, too much information makes the listener tune out
of the discussion.
8. Closed Communication Climate -- This pertains to how communication is treated in an
organization. A closed communication climate is where employees cannot freely discuss or
speak about their ideas. Information is blocked for some people and there is a rigid policy on
disseminating and conveying information.