Which of the following is a barrier to effective communication?

Distractions are a significant barrier to effective communication because they divert attention away from the message being conveyed. When either the sender or the receiver is distracted—by environmental noise, personal thoughts, or multitasking—the message can be misinterpreted, ignored, or completely missed. Effective communication relies heavily on both parties being fully present and engaged, so any factor that disrupts this focus can lead to misunderstandings or incomplete exchanges of information.

In contrast, clear articulation, active listening, and preparation are all practices that enhance communication. Clear articulation ensures that the message is expressed clearly and understandably. Active listening promotes engagement and understanding between the speaker and listener, allowing for feedback and clarification. Preparation helps in structuring the message effectively, anticipating questions, and considering the audience's needs, which ultimately supports clearer communication.