Speaking fundamental frequency characteristics of white, African American, and Hispanic kindergartners

Speech samples from groups of White, African American, and Hispanic kindergarten-age children were compared on measures of mean speaking fundamental frequency (F(zero)), maximum and minimum speaking F(zero), pitch sigma, and speaking range (in semitones). Results indicate that there are significant differences between racial groups on measures of mean speaking F(zero) and speaking range. In particular, the Hispanic children were observed to have increased mean speaking F(zero)S in comparison with the African American children and reduced speaking ranges as compared to both African American and White racial groups. Results indicate that the speech-language pathologist must exercise discretion when assessing the speaking F(zero) characteristics (particularly mean speaking F(zero) and speaking range) of children from different racial groups.