Barriers to Communication
Understanding what obstructs
effective communication
What Are Communication Barriers?
• Obstacles that prevent effective exchange of
ideas or understanding.
Main Types of Communication
Barriers
• 1. Physical
• 2. Psychological
• 3. Semantic
• 4. Cultural
• 5. Organizational
1. Physical Barriers
• Examples: Noise, poor lighting, faulty
equipment, distance between people.
2. Psychological Barriers
• Examples: Stress, emotions, mental health
issues, prejudices.
3. Semantic Barriers
• Misinterpretation due to language, jargon, or
vocabulary differences.
4. Cultural Barriers
• Differences in norms, values, language, or
social customs among cultures.
5. Organizational Barriers
• Hierarchies, unclear roles, poor
communication policies, bureaucracy.
6. Technological Barriers
• Incompatibility of devices, lack of access to
digital tools.
7. Perceptual Barriers
• Different viewpoints and personal perceptions
affecting message interpretation.
8. Interpersonal Barriers
• Lack of trust, attitude problems, poor listening
skills.
9. Emotional Barriers
• Strong feelings such as anger, sadness, or fear
blocking effective communication.
10. Language Barriers
• Use of complex language, slang, or foreign
terms that confuse the listener.
How to Overcome Barriers
• Active listening, empathy, feedback, clarity,
cultural awareness, and using proper tools.
Conclusion
• Recognizing and addressing communication
barriers improves overall effectiveness.

Barriers_to_Communication_PPT (Business Communication)