Examining phonetic trends in the speech of transgender YouTubers

Abstract

In LGBTQ research, transgender speech is understudied compared to gay and lesbian speech. Fundamental frequency (F0) and vowel space have both shown as useful in determining speaker gender (Simpson, 2009; Gaudio, 1994). Sibilants are also used to determine gender and sexuality (Zimman, 2017; Munson, 2007). This analysis of transgender YouTubers examines F0, vowel space, and sibilants and how their speech aligns with cisgender speakers. Videos of seven transgender YouTubers were transcribed and force-aligned. Measurements were taken comparing speakers within each group and with cisgender speakers. All transgender speakers produced F0 commensurate with cisgender speakers. Vowel space was plotted, showing transwomen produce an expanded vowel space when compared to transmen. Direct comparison to cisgender speakers was not undertaken. Differences in sibilant duration between groups was not borne out in the data. Spectral mean was also measured and transwomen showed ranges similar to ciswomen. Transmen were more variable in their production of sibilants. This study shows that transgender speakers produce speech that mostly aligns with cisgender speakers for the sounds measured. Though not representative of all trans people, these speakers show gendered speech is not simply physiological and further study may aid in efforts toward greater transgender equality.