Linear and Non-Linear

Model of Communication
Linear Model of
Communication
Linear communication model, communication is like giving
an injection: a sender encodes ideas and feelings into some
sort of message and then conveys them by means of a
channel (speech, writing, and so on) into a receiver, who
decodes the message.

The model highlights how different channels can affect the

way a receiver responds to a message.It also introduces the
concept of noise- a term used by social scientist to describe
any forces that interfere with effective communication.
Noise can occur at any stage of the communication process.

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 Concept of Noise in Linear Model
Three types of noise can disrupt communication- external, physiological and psychological..

External noise also Physiological noise Psychological Noise

called physical, includes involves biological refers to forces within a
those factors outside the factors in the receiver or communicator that
receiver that make it sender that interfere with interfere with the ability
difficult to hear, as well accurate reception E.g., to express or understand
as other kinds of illness, fatigue and so on. a message accurately.
distractions. E.g., stress,
E.g., a smoky room. defensiveness.

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 Disadvantages of Linear
Model
It makes the assumption that all communication involves encoding.
E.g. There are nonverbal cues that occur whether we speak or not.
Some of these cues are unconsciously done.

It also suggest that communication flows in one direction, from sender to

receiver. It ignores the fact that receivers react to messages by sending other
messages of their own.

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Conclusion
Communication is a continuous, transactional process
involving participants who occupy different but overlapping
environments and create a relationship by simultaneously
sending and receiving messages, many of which are
distorted by external, physiological and psychological
noise.

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 Non-linear model of communication
is an alternative to the traditional
linear communication model, which
Non-Linear Model of depicts communication as a one-way
process from sender to receiver.
Communication
The non-linear model recognizes that
communication is a dynamic and
interactive process, where multiple
factors can influence the exchange of
information.

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 Key Features of Non-Linear Model
Interference Multiple Channels
Feedback Loop Noise can be any factor that
Contextual Factor Communication is not restricted to a
distorts or disrupts the message single channel. In the non-linear model,
The meaning of a message can
Feedback is the process where the during transmission, such as communication can occur through
be influenced by the cultural,
distractions, language barriers, or various channels, including verbal, non-
receiver provides a response or social, and situational context in
technical issues. The model verbal, written, and visual
reaction to the sender's message. which it is communicated. The
recognizes that these factors can communication. Different channels may
This feedback can be immediate model emphasizes the need to
affect the accuracy of be used simultaneously, and individuals
or delayed and allows for understand and consider these
communication. may switch between them depending on
adjustments and clarification in contextual factors to accurately
the context
the communication process. interpret messages.

Dynamic Nature Mutual Influence

Communication is viewed as a dynamic
The non-linear model recognizes that
and evolving process in the non-linear
both the sender and receiver can
model. Messages are not static but can
influence each other. Communication is
change over time based on interactions,
a two-way street, and both parties play
feedback, and the evolving
an active role in shaping the meaning of

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understanding between the sender and
the message.
receiver.
Disadvantages of
Non-Linear Model
Non-linear communication, with its complexity and
emphasis on context, feedback, and multiple channels, can
lead to potential misinterpretation, ambiguity, and time-
consuming exchanges.

The dynamic nature may not be suitable for all situations,

and dependence on individual factors like communication
skills can impact effectiveness. Overemphasizing feedback
may also contribute to information overload.

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Conclusion
The non-linear model of communication provides a more
nuanced and realistic representation of the complex nature
of human communication, considering the interactive and
dynamic elements involved.

This model is particularly relevant in the context of

interpersonal communication and situations where
feedback and adaptability are crucial.

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COMMUNICATION THEORIES,
CONCEPTS AND PROCESS
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MASS
COMMUNICATION, JAMMU

Himanshu Raj
Digital Media