What may inhibit good communication by suggesting lack of attention?

Good communication can be significantly affected by various factors, and nonverbal barriers are particularly influential because they can suggest a lack of attention, understanding, or engagement. When nonverbal communication, such as body language, eye contact, or facial expressions, is misaligned with verbal communication, it can create confusion or indicate disinterest. For example, if a caregiver is speaking to a patient but looking away or crossing their arms, it may signal to the patient that the caregiver is not fully engaged or attentive.

While physical barriers, verbal communication, and written communication can also present challenges, they don’t specifically convey a lack of attention in the same way. Physical barriers may obstruct the message but don't directly imply disinterest. Verbal communication can be effective if done properly, and written communication, while sometimes lacking immediacy, is less likely to be interpreted as inattentiveness in a direct interaction. Thus, nonverbal barriers are particularly crucial to consider when evaluating a caregiver's attentiveness and presence in a conversation.