SOME REASONS WHY WE DISTORT AS WE LISTEN

1. Perceptual Differences
A person recieves a message and interprets it in light of previous experiences, values, or education. We have a predisposition to hear or not hear different messages that are sent (e.g. types of music.)

2. Selective Listening
An activity in which the listener blocks out a new message especially if it conflicts with previous information and beliefs.

3. Value Judgements
The reciever places a value on the quality or merit of a message prior to recieving the entire communication.

4. Source Credibility
A situation in which there is a lack of trust, credibility, or faith in the words or actions of the communicator. E.g. Being delegated an unusual task by a new supervisor whom you have never met, but have heard bad stories about.

5. Language or Jargon
A situation in which words, terms, or technical language may only be known by one party.

6. Time Pressure
If time pressure occur, communications are often shortened, or important parts are left out.

7. Status Differences
A situation in which there is a perception of threat on the part of someone lower in the hierachy which can prevent or distort communication.

*. Distorter
A situation in which one communicator distorts, omits, or adds to the original message, making it inaccuarte. E.g. a message is passed from person to person, and retains only 10-15% of othe original meaning.

9. Information Overload
When an individual is involved in multiple communication attempts at the same time and screens out the majority of the message. E.g. Problems at home, doctors report, two bosses calling within ten minutes of each other to give you instructions which are exactly opposite of what a third boss has told you to do and you have to show up for a hearing in five minutes.