Final answer:
The listening gap is the difference between speech rate and comprehension rate, where comprehension can be faster and more expansive than speech, potentially leading to listener boredom if the speaker doesn't engage them effectively. Volume, pitch, fluency, articulation, verbal fillers, and hearing loss can all impact the comprehension of speech.
Step-by-step explanation:
The listening gap refers to the discrepancy between the rate at which people speak (speech rate) and the rate at which they can comprehend spoken language (comprehension rate). While the average speech rate is about 125-150 words per minute, our comprehension rate can be up to 400-800 words per minute. This gap means that listeners are capable of understanding much more than is usually said in the time given. Therefore, they may become bored or distracted if the speaker does not maintain their interest.
Comprehension rate is also affected by factors such as volume, pitch, fluency, articulation, and the presence of verbal fillers, which can either clarify or obscure the message being communicated. For instance, a clear and well-projected voice may enhance comprehension, while excessive use of fillers like 'um' and 'ah' can decrease it. Furthermore, physiological conditions like a hearing loss may limit the frequencies and volume at which speech can be understood, significantly impacting comprehension, as described by the effects of 40 and 60-phons hearing loss on conversation.