Final answer:
The linear model of communication is characterized by its simplicity, unidirectionality, and a focus on psychological effects. It emphasizes mutual understanding over persuasion, representing a straightforward sender-to-receiver message transfer. C is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristics of a linear model of communication are it being simple and unidirectional, focusing on psychological effects over social effects, and aiming for mutual understanding rather than persuasion.
This model implies a straightforward process where a message travels from a sender to a receiver without the expectation of feedback or interaction that would complicate the communication process. Influential theories like the elaboration likelihood model underscore that persuasion involves more complex routes and is affected by various factors such as subtlety, sidedness, timing, and the characteristics of the audience.
However, these complexities go beyond the basic premise of the linear communication model, emphasizing its simplicity and directness.