The fact that it is harder to understand someone on the telephone than someone you are speaking to in person is inconsistent with the motor theory of speech perception.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The motor theory of speech perception suggests that understanding speech involves the listener's own speech motor processes. Difficulty in understanding someone on the telephone compared to in person can be consistent with this theory, as visual cues and additional context available in person but not over the phone can aid in the motor simulation process of understanding speech.

The Fact That It Is Harder to Understand Someone on the Telephone