Communication Barriers If it’s a barrier for one, it’s a barrier for both. © Dr. Bill Nodrick 2005

Instructions—Part A:  First, print out a copy of this document. [Click here for a printer friendly version.] Then, together with your partner, check off all of the items that each of you regard as barriers to your being able to communicate effectively. Use the spaces at the end of the list to add any additional barriers.   __ Bad timing (e.g., tired, hungry, not fully awake, just home from work, etc.) __ Insufficient time to address the issue adequately __ Language use barriers (e.g., disrespectful, provocative, etc.) __ Failure to verify or re-verify the accuracy of information communicated __ Indirect communication __ Distractions __ Emotional overlay (e.g., anger, fear, etc.) __ Baggage (i.e., old issues implicated) __ Expectation of poor communication based upon a history of ineffective communication __ Gender differences __ Information omitted (e.g., half truths) __ In the company of others __ Failure to manage “nonverbals” (e.g., tone of voice, posture, gestures, eye rolling, etc.) __ Kitchen sinking (throwing in everything but the kitchen sink) __ Disorganized information (i.e., lack of clarity regarding what you wish to communicate) __ No regular time for addressing issues of concern __ Failure to set time limits on the discussion of an issue __ Failure to specify a time to return to an unfinished issue   Other  _________________________________________________________________________________________   Other   _________________________________________________________________________________________   Other  _________________________________________________________________________________________     Communication Solutions     Instructions—Part B:  In the space below, state what you will do, as a couple, to set the stage for better communication. Keep in mind that it’s only a solution if you both agree to it, agree to abide by it, and DO it.     Our Solutions:   _______________________________________________________________________________________________   _______________________________________________________________________________________________   _______________________________________________________________________________________________   _______________________________________________________________________________________________   _______________________________________________________________________________________________   _______________________________________________________________________________________________     Click here for a printer friendly version of this document. The information contained on this page is for the personal use of stepfamily members visiting this web site. All other use, reproduction, distribution or storage of this work, in whole or in part, by any and all means, without the express written permission of the author, is strictly prohibited.   Stepfamily Foundation of Alberta