Question

Receivers of a message in an extension situation must possess-
(A). Positive attitude
(B). Good listening skills
(C). Good writing skills
(D). Empathy

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Extension communication is designed to be inclusive.
Because it serves rural communities, it relies on oral and visual methods, meaning receivers do not need writing skills (C) to participate.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The communication process is dynamic and interactive, requiring specific skills from both the sender (extension worker) and the receiver (the target audience, such as farmers or rural women).
According to communication models like Berlo's SMCR model, the characteristics of the receiver heavily influence how a message is decoded and interpreted.
In extension situations, which are often educational, non-formal, and interactive, receivers must possess certain skills and attitudes to successfully decode and adopt the recommended practices.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the required characteristics of receivers in an extension context:
(A). Positive attitude:
This is true.
A receiver's attitude toward the extension worker, the message topic, and change in general is a major determinant of communication success.
A positive attitude makes the receiver open to listening, learning, and adopting new technologies or behaviors.
(B). Good listening skills:
This is true.
Since much of extension work relies on verbal methods (group discussions, meetings, demonstrations), good listening skills are essential.
The receiver must be able to listen actively, understand instructions, and comprehend the scientific recommendations.
(C). Good writing skills:
This is false.
In many rural extension situations, the target audience includes illiterate or semi-literate individuals.
Extension communication is purposefully designed (using oral, visual, and hands-on methods) so that receivers do not need writing or reading skills to benefit from the program.
(D). Empathy:
This is true.
Empathy (the ability to understand and share the perspective of the other person) is needed from both the sender and the receiver.
When the receiver can empathize with the extension worker's intentions and goals, it fosters a relationship of mutual trust and smooth communication.
Therefore, (A), (B), and (D) are essential characteristics, while (C) is not.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the correct option representing the required characteristics of receivers is (A), (B), and (D) only.