* Poor Listening: This is a fundamental barrier. If you're not actively listening, you're missing information, misinterpreting messages, and ultimately hindering effective communication.
Here's why the other options are less general:
* Bad manners: While bad manners can create an unpleasant atmosphere, they aren't always a direct barrier to understanding.
* Between the lines: This refers to reading subtext and understanding unspoken messages, which is a skill that can be developed. It's not a universal barrier.
* Improper note-taking: This is a specific communication skill and barrier, primarily relevant in situations requiring information retention.
In short, poor listening affects the ability to receive and process information, making it a universal barrier to effective communication.