Communication: The Essence of Being Human

Communication: The Essence of Being Human

" The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place."

                                                                                          - George Bernard Shaw

Communication, a seemingly basic and simple process, has many layers of significance attached to it. It is an innate part of human existence and forms a pathway to intimate relationships, community, society and mutual understanding among human beings. It is thus crucial for us to understand the different types of communication and the possible barriers that obstruct the path of effective communication. 

When participants engage in the process of communication, they intend to reach a mutual understanding by means of exchanging ideas, thoughts, information and emotions through signs, gestures, speech, written word and so on. Communication is of two basic types - verbal and non-verbal communication. 

Verbal Communication:

Verbal communication is the form of communication that relies on speech and words for the transfer of messages between the sender and the receiver. This form of communication is further divided into two types, namely- oral communication and written communication.

a. Oral Communication:

Oral communication deals with the exchange of messages between the sender and the receiver by means of speech. Examples for oral communication include telephonic conversations, seminars, presentations and so on.

b. Written Communication:

Written communication deals with the exchange of messages between the sender and the receiver by  means of written words. Examples for written communication include letters, books, billboards, newspapers and so on.

Non-Verbal Communication:

Non-verbal communication is a form of communication that relies on wordless cues,signs, gestures, body language (kinesics), proximity (proxemics),touch (haptics) and so on for the transfer of messages between the sender and the receiver. 

It is extremely crucial to understand that communication is a two way process. The effectiveness of communication is not only determined by the message sent by the sender but also by the feedback given by the receiver who interprets the message. This aspect of communication makes it a dynamic process and makes room for various barriers and obstacles at the same time.

Communication Barriers:

Communication barriers are obstacles that arise in the process of communication that either retard or distort the meaning of the message sent by the sender to the receiver. This hinders the effectiveness and the intended impact of the message. Communication barriers are of the following types:

a. Physical Barriers:

Physical barriers are the natural and environmental conditions that act as a barrier to effective communication between the sender and the receiver. They occur due to factors such as noise, technical glitches, weather conditions, time, distance and so on.

Example:  If two friends are conversing in a club, the loud music in the place can hinder the effectiveness of their communication. 

b. Emotional Barriers:

Emotional barriers are mental blocks that impede the way a person communicates to another person. Emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety and so on can hinder the message immensely.

Example: A person who is proud of his/her perspective may not pay any heed to the perspectives of another person and this pride forms an emotional barrier.

c. Cultural Barriers:

Social behavior, social conditioning, traditions, rituals, art, music, architecture and many other aspects collectively form the basis for a person's culture. The cultural diversity that exists among people results in cultural barriers that make communication difficult.

Example: The ' thumbs-up' sign is taken as a sign of approval in many countries but in countries such as Bangladesh and Thailand, it is considered to be a very obscene and offensive sign. This cultural diversity can cause many communication barriers. 

d. Perceptual Barriers:

Perceptual barriers are internal in nature and depend upon the different perceptions of the people communicating with one another. They influence the interpretation of the messages received as well as the way a person delivers his/her message to another person. 

Example: If you go into a conversation with the perception that the other person is not going to understand your message, you might employ language that is dismissive and this would in turn effects the quality of communication. 

e. Language Barriers:

These are probably the most common communication barriers that cause misunderstanding between people. Language is integral to communication and without a mutual language, it is very difficult for two people to communicate. Aspects such as slang, grammar, accents and so on form language barriers. 

Example: A Scottish man and a British woman would find it difficult to communicate because of the different accents they employ while talking English. 

f. Gender Barriers:

Men and women have assigned roles in society. These assumed gender roles and societal stereotypes can give rise to many communication barriers. Although not all men and women communicate the same way, there are certain traits that are common to one gender.

Example: If a woman is not allowed to state her opinion at her workplace because of a gender bias, it gives rise to communication barriers. 

g. Interpersonal Barriers:

Interpersonal barriers are extremely individualistic in nature. A person's nature in itself can become a communication barrier due to preconceived notions, ideologies, personality issues and so on.

Example: If a person exhibits absolutely no desire to communicate, it becomes a major hurdle in the process of effective communication.   

The understanding of the different types of communication and the possible barriers to the process of communication is crucial for every individual as it enables him/her to become a better communicator.