BARRIERS IN

COMMUNICATION
BY

LIJO JOHNSON
Definitions of Communication
 Newman & Summer define communication as “an
exchange of facts, ideas, opinion or emotions by two or
more persons.”

 According to L. A. Allen, communication is” the sum of

all things, one person does when he wants to create an
understanding in mind of another. It involves a
systematic & continuous understanding.”

By - Lijo & Vaibhavi 2

Barriers in communication
1. Physical barriers  are often due to the nature of the
environment.

2. System design  faults refer to problems with the

structures or systems in place in an organisation.

3. Attitudinal barriers  come about as a result of problems

with staff in an organisation.

4. Psychological factors such as people's state of mind. We

all tend to feel happier and more receptive to
information when the sun shines.

By - Lijo & Vaibhavi 3

5. Noise :- Noise refers to the interference or distraction
that is in the environment in which the
communication is taking place.
6. Distortion :- Distortion refers to the loss of meaning
of the message in handling.  This largely occurs in the
encoding and decoding stages of communication.
7. Gender :- Gender differences are a common barrier of
communication.  Men and women communicate for
different reasons with different styles.
8. Information overload:- Lots of information that is
also termed as information overload can also be a big
hindrance in effective communication.

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9. Different languages and cultures represent a national
barrier which is particularly important for organisations
involved in overseas business.

10. Individual linguistic ability is also important. The use of

difficult or inappropriate words in communication can
prevent people from understanding the message.

11. Perceptual barriers Every person perceives things

differently. Communication involves perception, and
perception is never precise.

12. Lack of communication skills:-Presentation of

information is also important to aid understanding.

By - Lijo & Vaibhavi 5

Overcoming communication barriers
1. Make a note where necessary

2. Give information in sequentially organized form

3. Do not take it for granted that words & symbols are

understood in same way by all

4. Make distinction b/w observation & inference very

clear

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5. Simplify message as much as possible

6. Oral delivery of message should be slow & clear

7. Repeat message where necessary

8. Emphasis the important parts

9. Improve accent & English speaking

10. Pave your path to success

By - Lijo & Vaibhavi 7

By - Lijo & Vaibhavi 8