Feelings • Anger, sadness, etc • We often say hurtful things in a fit of anger or revenge • We often carry these feelings around for a long time Situations • Stressful situations can alter communication • Unfamiliar situations may affect communication Environment • Must be comfortable for successful communication • Problems with heat and/or cold alter communication Past Experiences • Whether positive or negative, experiences alter our perception of future contact with various people or groups of people Body Language • Gestures • Facial expressions • Posture • Eye contact Culture • Certain cultures have rules about communicating with others