What is one major cause of communication breakdown in a military context?

One major cause of communication breakdown in a military context is the difference in rank. In hierarchical structures typical of military organizations, communication can be significantly influenced by the rank of individuals involved in the conversation. When a lower-ranking individual communicates with a higher-ranking officer, dynamics such as fear of speaking candidly, hesitance to challenge ideas, or even the perception that their input is less valued can arise. This can lead to misunderstandings, lack of clarity, or insufficient information being shared, ultimately impeding effective communication.

In contrast, options like direct feedback, clear objectives, and collaborative discussions are typically practices that enhance communication. Direct feedback encourages open dialogue, clear objectives help maintain focus and understanding, and collaborative discussions foster an environment of teamwork and shared information. These strategies are generally viewed as effective modes of communication rather than contributing to breakdowns.