Contribution of the Somatosensory System to Speech Perceptual Processing

Contribution of the Somatosensory System to Speech Perceptual Processing Aim 3

These studies test the hypothesis that the repeated pairing of somatosensory inputs with speech sounds, such as occurs during speech motor learning, results in changes to the perceptual classification of speech sounds.

This study will assess changes to the perceptual classification of speech sounds that are related to repeated pairing of somatosensory and auditory inputs (as would occur during speech motor learning). Before and after the training, base-line and post-training auditory perceptual performance will be examined in the absence of somatosensory stimulation, in order to evaluate the effects of the pairing on speech perception. Perceptual classification and speech motor learning will both be assessed on a 0 to 100 scale.

Inclusion Criteria:

• right handed adults
• no known physical or neurological abnormalities

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients with:
• cardiac pacemaker
• surgical clips or values on the heart
• implants
• metal or metallic fragments in any part of the body
• pregnancy
• claustrophobia
• a personal or family history of epilepsy
• currently taking antipsychotic drugs
• currently taking antidepressant drugs
• currently taking antianxiety drugs.