Robustness of lateral tongue bracing in second language speech

Abstract

Lateral tongue bracing, a universal speech posture, is an actively maintained robust position, akin to standing and locomotion [Gick et al., 2017, JSLHR 60; Liu et al., 2022, JIPA, Phonetica 79]. Studying the robustness of bracing in second-language (L2) speakers can provide insight into learning of speech posture. In this study, we investigate the extent to which speaking in a second language affects the robustness of lateral tongue bracing compared to first language (L1) speech. Participants read two short texts, one in their native language and one in their second language, under a 10 mm bite-block condition. Intra-oral videos are analyzed for the percentage of time bracing occurred in continuous speech. Our preliminary results showed a decrease in the overall percentage of lateral contact during L2 continuous speech compared to L1. These insights invite a reassessment of our existing parallel posture model. We suggest adapting this model to account for the cognitive demands of L2, and the possible role of learning language-specific articulatory settings in postural robustness for L2 speakers.