In Berlo's Sender-Message-Channel-Receiver model, which aspect does the 'receiver' mainly refer to?

The 'receiver' in Berlo's Sender-Message-Channel-Receiver model specifically refers to the individual who interprets the message. This aspect is crucial in any communication process, as the effectiveness of a message is largely dependent on how well it is understood by the receiver. The receiver engages with the message, processing it using their own experiences, beliefs, and context. Successful communication occurs when the intended meaning of the sender aligns with the interpretation of the receiver, highlighting the importance of the receiver's role in the communication process.

The other aspects in the model, such as the sender, message, and channel, contribute to the development and transmission of the message but do not directly pertain to who interprets it. For instance, the sender is the one who creates the message, while the channel is concerned with the medium of communication, and the source of interference relates to factors that may distort the message instead of interpreting it. This model emphasizes that communication is a reciprocal process, making the receiver's understanding central to its effectiveness.