Which of the following is considered a personal communication barrier?

Bias and prejudice are considered personal communication barriers because they affect how individuals perceive and interact with others. When someone holds biases or prejudices, it can distort their understanding and interpretation of the information being communicated, leading to misunderstandings and a lack of effective dialogue. These inner attitudes can prevent individuals from listening openly, responding compassionately, or engaging fully in a conversation, which is essential for effective communication.

Other factors listed, such as problems with hearing, language differences, and poor eye contact, are also barriers to communication; however, they are primarily external or situational factors rather than intrinsic. While they can disrupt the flow of information exchange, bias and prejudice stem from personal beliefs and attitudes that can significantly impact interpersonal communication on a deeper level. Addressing these biases is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and effective communication environment.