Relationships Between Auditory Discrimination and Adaptation of Vocal Features of Speech

Abstract

The current study evaluated relationships between auditory discrimination and adaptation of vocal features of speech. Previous research suggests relationships between auditory discrimination and adaptation of articulatory features of speech. However, there is conflicting evidence relating auditory discrimination ability and adaptation responses of one specific vocal feature of speech, fundamental frequency (fo). Additionally, there are no published studies evaluating the relationship of auditory discrimination ability and adaptation of intensity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between auditory discrimination and adaptation of vocal features of speech, including fundamental frequency (fo) and intensity. Twenty typical speakers underwent auditory discrimination tasks for fo and intensity. They also participated in speech adaptation experiments for fo and intensity. Results indicated no to weak relationship between auditory discrimination and adaptation of fo and no to weak relationship between auditory discrimination and adaptation of intensity. The results therefore support the use and further development of voice-specific models of sensorimotor control for vocal parameters, such as fo and intensity, when analyzing auditory-motor control of vocal features of speech. Implications for future research and clinical studies will be discussed.