What can cause miscommunication in interactions?

Miscommunication often arises from barriers that interfere with the delivery, reception, or understanding of a message. These barriers can be physical, such as noise or distance, or psychological, such as biases, preconceived notions, or emotional states that may cloud judgment. When such barriers are present, even a well-structured message may not be fully comprehended or may be misinterpreted by the recipient, leading to confusion or conflict. Addressing these barriers is essential for effective communication, especially in a correctional or probation context where clear exchanges of information are crucial for safety, understanding, and compliance.

In contrast, aspects like clarity, effective verbal skills, and active listening practices contribute positively to communication by enhancing understanding and reducing the likelihood of miscommunication. These strategies help ensure that messages are clear, that both parties are engaged in the conversation, and that feedback is utilized to confirm comprehension.