Mass communication characteristics – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, C and E correctly describe features of mass communication, while D is incorrect. A is true because mass communication generally uses technological media such as television, radio or online platforms to address large and diverse audiences. B is true as feedback in mass communication is often delayed or indirect, making the flow largely one-way. C is true since media organisations and institutions typically act as communicators. E is true because gatekeeping refers to the editorial process of selecting and shaping content. D is wrong because mass communication does not “always” provide real-time personalised messages to each individual; such personalisation is limited and not a defining property, so D only is the wrong statement.

Option A:
Option A, which selects A and D only, mistakenly treats A as an incorrect statement even though it accurately reflects the technological and large-audience nature of mass communication. By including a true statement as wrong, this option becomes logically inconsistent. Therefore, A and D only cannot be accepted.

Option B:
Option B groups B, D and E as wrong, but both B and E are correct descriptions: B notes the limited immediate feedback common in mass communication, and E explains gatekeeping. Labelling these as wrong misrepresents mass media theory. Thus, B, D and E only is not a valid option.

Option C:
Option C singles out D only, correctly identifying the statement that exaggerates the degree of real-time personalisation in mass communication. Because all the other statements describe accepted features, isolating D as the sole wrong statement is accurate. Hence, D only is the correct answer.

Option D:
Option D treats C and D as wrong, but C is a correct observation that institutions, rather than lone individuals, usually function as communicators in mass media. Including C among wrong statements means this option cannot be reconciled with standard understanding of mass communication. Therefore, C and D only is not acceptable.