Barriers to Communication

Communication is effective if it flows freely in a communication loop between the sender(s) and receiver(s). Free flow means uninterrupted transmission of the information / the message through an appropriate medium, correct comprehension of the message by the receiver and a relevant and appropriate feedback from him. Misunderstanding, Irrelevant response and undesirable reactions are the consequences of a failed communication exercise. Failure of effective communication results in loss of valuable time, resource, material and even life. You know that in an authoritarian set up, be it a state or a business or even a family, communication is unidirectional and is so fragile that it would snap anytime leading to irreparable damage. Though these may be indirect results of communication failure, an effective channel of communication could have reduced the damage. When we say that some one has an open mind, we mean that he is transparent and receptive which in turn means that he is flexible and not rigid. All these characteristics are related to the mental make-up and communication style of the individual. Barriers to communications range from the simple distracting noises to the most complex psychological factors. These barriers may cause a simple communication gap or a total failure of communication. A communication gap can be bridged but retrieval of a situation, damaged by miscommunication would be rather difficult.