Factors that prevent the receiver from receiving the message and may be created by either internal or external sources are referred to as:

The correct answer is "interference/environment" because this term specifically encompasses the various factors, whether internal or external, that can disrupt or distort the transmission of a message from sender to receiver. Interference can arise from a multitude of sources, such as background noise (external), personal emotions or biases (internal), or even the physical environment where the communication occurs. Understanding these influences is crucial for effective communication, as they highlight the importance of creating an optimal context for message delivery and reception.

While "barriers" can also refer to similar obstructing factors in communication, they are generally understood to be more static or persistent obstacles, whereas interference can be more dynamic and situation-dependent, making the latter a more precise term in this context. Feedback typically pertains to the responses given by the receiver after interpreting the message, and communication breakdown specifically describes a complete failure in the communication process, rather than the factors causing disruption.