A modified on-off model for conversational speech with short silence gaps

Abstract

Modifications to P.T. Brady's (1969) six-state model for the on-off patterns in conversational speech are proposed in order to incorporate short speaking pauses while preserving the characteristics of longer silent gaps (long speaking pauses and listening pauses) and also preserving the dynamics of the interaction between speaking parties. The modifications are based on data concerning the characteristics of short speaking pauses and long speaking pauses in monologue speech, which are shown to be consistent with the data on long speaking pauses and uninterrupted talkspurt lengths in Brady's original six-state model.