Correct Answer: Cultural differences

Solution : The correct answer is (b) Cultural differences

Cultural differences can act as an external barrier to communication when individuals from different cultural backgrounds have distinct norms, values, beliefs, and communication styles. These differences can result in misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and challenges in effectively conveying and understanding messages.

Cultural differences can affect various aspects of communication, including language, non-verbal cues, social norms, and expectations. Different cultural perspectives and communication styles may lead to different interpretations of messages, different levels of directness or indirectness, and varying levels of formality.