Match List-I with List-II and select the answer using the code given below the Lists : List-I (Barrier to communication) A. Semantic B. Cognitive C. Organisational D. Affective List-II (Example) 1. Lack of feedback 2. Misunderstanding the meaning of a word 3. Fear of social stigma 4. Information overload Code :

The correct answer is Option D.

In communication theory, barriers are categorized based on their source or nature. The correct matching aligns with standard organizational behavior and communication studies:

• Semantic Barrier (A-2): "Semantics" is the study of meaning in language. Semantic barriers occur when the sender and receiver have different interpretations of a message or symbol. Therefore, misunderstanding the meaning of a word is a classic semantic barrier.
• Cognitive Barrier (B-4): "Cognition" involves mental processes such as perception, memory, and analytical capacity. When an individual is bombarded with too much data, their brain's processing capacity is overwhelmed. Thus, information overload constitutes a cognitive barrier.
• Organisational Barrier (C-1): These barriers stem from rigid hierarchies, restrictive policies, or complex organizational structures. Such structural bottlenecks often block the upward or downward flow of communication, resulting in a lack of feedback.
• Affective Barrier (D-3): The term "affective" pertains to emotions, feelings, and psychological attitudes. Negative emotional states, such as anxiety, stress, or the fear of social stigma, prevent individuals from opening up and communicating honestly.

Why the other options are incorrect:

• Option A incorrectly pairs Semantic with Fear of social stigma (3). Stigma is an emotional (affective) barrier, not a linguistic one.
• Option B correctly matches Organisational with Lack of feedback (1), but wrongly pairs Semantic with Fear of social stigma (3), violating the linguistic definition of semantics.
• Option C correctly identifies the Semantic barrier (2), but incorrectly pairs Cognitive with Lack of feedback (1). Feedback deficiency is a structural issue, while cognition relates to mental limits like overload.

Takeaway Mnemonic: Remember the roots: Semantic = Speech/Language; Cognitive = Capacity of the mind; Organisational = Office structure/Hierarchy; Affective = Attitudes/Emotions.