The voice that people who are not mute hear in their head is often referred to as "inner speech" or "inner voice." It is the internal monologue or dialogue that individuals experience when they think, reason, or reflect within their own minds. This inner voice is like a stream of thoughts, words, or ideas that people use to process information, solve problems, plan, remember things, and engage in self-talk.
For many people, this inner voice is in the same language they use for external communication, but some may experience it in a different language, especially if they are bilingual or multilingual. The tone and manner of this inner voice can vary from person to person; some people may perceive it as more vivid and prominent, while others may experience it as a more subtle background process.
It's important to note that the nature of the inner voice can be influenced by various factors, including cultural background, cognitive style, and individual personality. Additionally, it can be affected by mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which may lead to changes in the way individuals experience their inner speech. Overall, the inner voice is a fundamental aspect of human cognition and plays a crucial role in our everyday thinking processes.