Communication barriers can occur at any stage of the communication process. There are four main types of barriers: physical barriers which include noise and distractions, semantic or language barriers caused by differences in terminology or language, cultural barriers due to differing values or traditions between groups, and psychological or attitude barriers stemming from emotions, biases, or lack of attention. Overcoming communication barriers requires understanding other perspectives, using clear language, and creating a comfortable environment for sharing information.

1. BARRIERS TO
COMMUNICATIO
N

2. What is communication?
Communication is the art of
transmitting knowledge, ideas,
information and thoughts from one
person to another.

3. What is a barrier to
communication?
Anything that hinders the process of
communication at any of these levels is
a barrier to communication.
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4. Barriers to
Communication
Physical Barriers
Semantic/Language
Barriers
Cultural Barriers
Psychological/Attitude
Barriers

5. Physical Barriers
 Physical noise (outside disturbance)
 Time and distance
 Mechanical breakdowns

6. Semantic/Language
Barriers
 Homophones, Homographs, Homonyms
 Denotations and connotations
 Different languages
 No clarity in speech
 Jargon

7. Psychological/ Attitude
Barriers
 Attitude and opinions
 Emotions
 Inattentiveness
 Narrow-mindedness
 Distrust
 Poor retention skills

8. Cultural Barriers
 Values
 Traditions
 Gestures

9. Ways to overcome
communication barriers
• Understanding
other traditions
• Avoiding
stereotypes
• Calling
attention
• Identifying with
the listeners
• Simple
Language
• Symbols and
charts
• Appropriate
seating
• Environmental
comfort
Physical
Barriers
Semantic
Barriers
Cultural
Barriers
Psychological
Barriers