Predictors of token-to-token inconsistency in preschool children with typical speech-language development

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine potential concurrent predictors and replicate rates of token-to-token inconsistency (inconsistency in repeated productions of the same word) in 43 children with typical speech-language development, ages 2;6 to 4;2. A standard linear regression was used to determine which variables, if any, among age, expressive and receptive vocabulary, and speech sound production abilities predicted token-to-token inconsistency. Inconsistency rates in children from one research site, reported elsewhere, were compared to rates in children from a second research site. The results revealed that expressive vocabulary was the only significant predictor of token-to-token inconsistency in these children. Furthermore, inconsistency rates were similarly high across the two research sites. The findings are discussed in terms of their implications for our theoretical understanding of token-to-token inconsistency and its role in the differential diagnosis of speech sound disorders in children.

• Inconsistency assessment
• phonological encoding
• underlying representations
• variability
• vocabulary

Acknowledgements

The following individuals contributed to data collection, coding, and transcription: Katharine Bedsole, Sarah Cambanes, Rhea Lewis-Tribe, Elizabeth McClellan, Kelsey Miller, Shelby Mirabelli, Cheryl Pergola, Ryan Shoemaker, Victoria Sokoll, Emily White, and Kerry Will.

Declaration of interest

The Arizona study was supported by the Faculty Grants Programme through the Northern Arizona University Office of the Vice President for Research. The Florida study was supported by the Committee on Faculty Research Support award through the Florida State University Council on Research and Creativity. The authors report no other declarations of interest.