Classification of Barriers to Communication

The barriers to communication can be broadly classified as:

  1. Semantic Barriers
  2. Psychological Barriers
  3. Organisational Barriers
  4. Personal Barriers

Barriers to Effective Communication

The factors which obstruct the effectiveness of communication is known as Communication Barriers. These barriers cause a mismatch between the understanding of the message by the sender and the receiver. These barriers can occur at any stage of the communication process. 

Table of Content

  • Classification of Barriers to Communication
  • 1. Semantic Barriers
  • 2. Psychological Barriers
  • 3. Organisational Barriers
  • 4. Personal Barriers

Communication is an indispensable element in human relationships. Humans interact with one another through communication. The term ‘communication’ is derived from the Latin word ‘communis’, which means common. Therefore, communication is defined as an exchange of facts, ideas, opinions, or emotions to create mutual understanding. It is the sum of all things one person does in order to create understanding in the minds of others.

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Classification of Barriers to Communication

The barriers to communication can be broadly classified as:...

1. Semantic Barriers

The branch of science that deals with the meaning of words and sentences is known as Semantic. The problems and obstructions in the process of encoding and decoding message into words or impressions is known as Semantic barriers. This barrier arises because different words mean different things to different people. A breakdown in communication can occur when two individuals attach different meanings to a word. For example, for organisations, ‘Profits‘ may mean growth and efficiency, but for employees, it may mean excess funds generated by paying inadequate wages and benefits....

2. Psychological Barriers

Barriers which arise on the account of emotional and psychological status of the sender and receiver of the message are known as Psychological Barriers. For example, a person who is under stress cannot communicate properly....

3. Organisational Barriers

In an organisation, communication has to pass through various levels and channels, hence it may not reach the same place as it was sent by the sender. Organisation structure, rules and regulations, authority relationships, etc., act as a barrier to effective communication....

4. Personal Barriers

The effectiveness of communication is influenced by the personal factors of both sender and the receiver....