THE ACOUSTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF VOICE AND SPEECH IN ADULTS WITH ATAXIC DYSARTHRIA
THE ACOUSTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF VOICE AND SPEECH IN ADULTS WITH ATAXIC DYSARTHRIA

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the acoustic characteristics of voice and speech in adults with ataxic dysarthria, and to examine the extent to which they differ from those of typical speakers. The sample consisted of 30 patients with ataxic dysarthria, ages 21 through 82 (M = 56.07). Using the computer programme for multidimensional voice analysis (MDVP), the individual values of 10 acoustic voice parameters were determined for each sex. Additionally, the programme provided the frequency values of the first two formants for all five vowels of the Serbian language, based on the participants’ reading of the Balanced Text. The results of the analysis showed statistically significant differences in the values of the acoustic parameters between the participants with ataxic dysarthria and the reference values valid for typical speakers, which were generated by the MDVP. These differences were observed in parameters indicating voice frequency variability (F0, Fhi, Flo, STD, Jitt, vF0), voice intensity variability (Shim and vAm), and the presence of voice interruptions (DVB) and voiceless periods (DUV). Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was found between participants with ataxic dysarthria and typical speakers in the second formant (F2) of the vowels /E/ (p <0.01), /I/ (p <0.01), and /U/ (p <0.05). The significant deviations from the norms applicable to typical speakers indicate the substantial changes present in the voice and speech of individuals with ataxic dysarthria.

• Details
• Contents