Let’s Do It! Directions: Analyze the situation and identify the barrier which is experienced by the communicators. Write your answers on the blanks.
1. Miranda is ill and she is having her online class. She cannot connect to the topic that is being discussed. ______________________
2. Karen studied abroad and she experienced discrimination due to her slanted eyes. __________________ 3. Helen lost her dog and she can not respond to her brother’s questions. ___________________________
4. Marcos is not listening to Liza’s opinion since Marcos have a different belief. _____________________
5. Max joined Tina’s and she cannot understand the medical terms that they are talking. ________________
Below are some of the barriers that hinder success in communication process.
1. Physical Barriers — These barriers are those that separate people from each other and mark
territories. This type of barrier can often be seen in the workplace where offices and closed
doors stop communication.
2. Language Barriers — Not using words another can understand will certainly stop your
message from being conveyed. This not only applies to actual languages, but that of
expressions, buzz words, and other jargon. If one is not familiar with your language,
misinterpretation will occur.
3. Gender Barriers — Variation exists among masculine and feminine styles of communication.
While women often emphasize politeness, empathy, and rapport building, male
communication is often more direct. Meshing these two styles without awareness could be
become a barrier.
4. Interpersonal Barriers — These are barriers are created to distance themselves from others.
These can be done through withdrawal, meaningless rituals which keep one devoid of real
contact, superficial activities through pastimes, and more.
5. Perceptual Barriers - Different world views can create misunderstanding. Without thinking
one might only view a message from their mindset rather than looking to see it from another
viewpoint.
6. Cultural Barriers - Ethnic, religious, and social differences can often create
misunderstandings when trying to communicate. These differences can also affect perceptual
factors, s mentioned above.
7. Emotional Barriers - Trouble listening can occur if one is consumed with emotion. Hostility,
anger, fear, and other emotions make it hard to hear outside of one's self.
