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Rhythm in Thai esophageal speech.
Journal of Speech and Hearing Research
|December 1, 1986
Summary
This study compared speech rhythm in a Thai esophageal speaker to normal speakers. Despite overall slower speech, the esophageal speaker maintained normal syllable timing within phrases, showing language-specific rhythmic adaptations.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Speech Pathology
- Phonetics
Background:
- Alaryngeal speech research often focuses on universal features.
- Understanding language-specific rhythmic adaptations in alaryngeal speech is crucial.
Observation:
- Temporal measures of speech rhythm were analyzed in a Thai esophageal speaker.
- Compared measures included syllable, pause, phrase, and interstress interval durations.
- A slower speaking rate and shorter phrase length were noted.
Findings:
- The esophageal speaker maintained normal relative temporal relationships of syllables within phrases.
- Speech exhibited dysrhythmia at the discourse level but rhythmicity at the phrase level.
- Results indicate language-specific rhythmic control in alaryngeal speech.
Implications:
- Highlights the need to distinguish universal from language-specific features in alaryngeal speech.
- Informs therapeutic strategies for improving speech rhythm in alaryngeal speakers.
- Contributes to a deeper understanding of speech production mechanisms post-laryngectomy.