Asymmetries in placement and timing of alveolar tongue contact patterns for /s/ and /l/

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The “central groove” of the tongue for /s/, and the alveolar tongue contact pattern of /l/ frequently show left-right asymmetries. These articulatory asymmetries are highly consistent within an individual, but do not seem to bear a clear relationship to other type of sidedness, such as hand preference. Left-right differences in alveolar and palatal contour have been suggested as a causal factor. The present study employed dynamic palatography with five subjects. Tongue contact for /s/ was initiated earlier on one side, as if to anchor the tongue. Subsequently, a more anterior groove formation followed. Contact and release in a VCV environment were similar, with the side touched first at onset of /s/ being the side to be released later. The side with greater (and usually earlier) contact for /s/ was generally also more widely contacted for /l/, such that the lateral margin of the tongue appeared at times to be free only on one side. Since sidedness was similar for /s/ and /l/, /sl/ blend articulation was simplified. Preliminary results of an experiment in altering the oral contour with a dental appliance, thicker on one side, and the resulting palatographic changes will also be discussed. [Work supported by NIDR.]

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: