Physical Noise

Physical noise consists of various sounds in an environment that interfere with a

source’s ability to hear. Construction noises right outside a window, planes flying
directly overhead, or loud music in the next room can make it difficult to hear the
message being presented by a speaker even if a microphone is being used. It is
sometimes possible to manage the context to reduce the noise. Closing a
window might be helpful. Asking the people in the next room to turn their music
down might be possible. Changing to a new location is more difficult, as it
involves finding a new location and having everyone get there.

Psychological Noise
Psychological noise consists of distractions to a speaker’s message caused by a
receiver’s internal thoughts. For example, if you are preoccupied with personal
problems, it is difficult to give your full attention to understanding the meanings of
a message. The presence of another person to whom you feel attracted, or
perhaps a person you dislike intensely, can also be psycho-social noise that
draws your attention away from the message.

Physiological Noise
Physiological noise consists of distractions to a speaker’s message caused by a
listener’s own body. Maybe you’re listening to a speech in class around noon and
you haven’t eaten anything. Your stomach may be growling and your desk is
starting to look tasty. Maybe the room is cold and you’re thinking more about how
to keep warm than about what the speaker is saying. In either case, your body
can distract you from attending to the information being presented.