Generational change in the prevalence of creaky voice:

In recent years there has been a general perception both in the literature and in lay commentary that use of creaky voice (vocal fry) has increased. This is most commonly commented upon in reference to English (particularly American English), and is most often linked to female speech. However, few studies have empirically examined whether there has been an increase in creaky voice (with inconsistent findings) and whether gender differences in the use of creak have indeed changed across generations. In this presentation, we present the results of two studies analysing creak prevalence over time in Australian English and in German. In the first study, a real-time analysis of Australian English was conducted, in which we examined the prevalence of creaky voice in the speech of Australian English teenagers recorded in the late 1980s and in the early 2020s. In the second study, an apparent-time analysis of German was conducted, in which we analysed the prevalence of creaky voice in speakers aged between 18 and 75. The results show evidence of generational change in the prevalence of creak in both languages that is modulated by gender, with evidence of increased use of creaky voice by young female speakers in both languages.

Joshua Penney & Hannah White (Macquarie University Sydney, Australia):

WHEN and WHERE: June 17 at 6:15 p.m. at Fürstengraben 30, conference room on the 1st floor.

We would also like to offer a Zoom option. Here is the link to the meeting:
https://uni-jena-de.zoom-x.de/j/65690643579Externer Link
Meeting ID: 656 9064 3579
Passcode: 194406