The Role and Significance of Lip-Reading

Lip-reading is a complex psychophysiological process, which involves the visual perception of oral movements, their kinaesthetic memorisation, and the psychological act of recognising (identifying) words for their better understanding. The need of each person to supplement and clarify the received message is emphasised by the careful observation of the face and lips, especially in unfavourable environmental conditions. The main aim of the study is to point to the role, importance, specific features, and the benefits and limitations of lip-reading through the review of available literature. The methods of analysis and evaluation were applied to the relevant available literature. Numerous pieces of data on the characteristics, factors and features which affect lip-reading were obtained. Lip-reading, i.e. the ability to understand speech on the basis of observing the movements of speech organs is a very specific skill. It is one of the components of speech development, and it represents a part of the communication speech chain which comprises the speaker and the one who reads speech. It has a manifold application in the transcription of speech in cases when sound is not available. What can have a negative impact on the perception of speech is the possibility of sound and lip movements not being synchronised. It is of particular significance for deaf persons and persons hard of hearing who rely on this process fully in their everyday communication, which makes it easier for them to receive information from their surroundings. It enables their better communication, education, independence and coping in their daily functioning.