Speaking Fundamental Frequency Characteristics of White, African American, and Hispanic Kindergartners

Abstract

Speech samples from groups of White, African American, and Hispanic kindergarten-age children were compared on measures of mean speaking fundamental frequency (F o ), maximum and minimum speaking F o , pitch sigma, and speaking range (in semitones). Results indicate that there are significant differences between racial groups on measures of mean speaking F o and speaking range. In particular, the Hispanic children were observed to have increased mean speaking F O S in comparison with the African American children and reduced speaking ranges as compared to both African American and White racial groups. Results indicate that the speech-language pathologist must exercise discretion when assessing the speaking F o characteristics (particularly mean speaking F o and speaking range) of children from different racial groups.