Clinical Aspects of Transgender Speech Feminization and Masculinization

Abstract

Societal norms of speech, voice, and non-verbal communication are often strongly gendered. For transgender individuals who experience a mismatch between existing communication behaviours and felt sense of self, changes to the gendered aspects of communication can help reduce gender dysphoria, improving mental health and quality of life. While peer resources are often beneficial in changing overall appearance and presentation, speech and voice modification is best facilitated by a trans-competent speech professional. In this article we review clinical research relating to transgender speech and voice change and discuss clinical protocols for trans-specific assessment, treatment, and outcome evaluation.

Adolescent male-to-female transgender voice and communication therapy

“…485-487;Davies & Goldberg, 2006) three times. The TSEQ, consisting of 30 statements with agreement ranked on a 1-5 scale (1 = never, 5 = always), is similar to the Voice Handicap Index (VHI, Jacobson et al, 1997) but phrased more appropriately for TG clients.…”

“…Oral resonance: Resonance can be described as the effects of the vocal tract on the sound produced by the larynx, with female resonance classified as a bright, forward sound that accompanies sensations of the voice resonating within the oral cavity (Davies & Goldberg, 2006). This type of feminine oral resonance was introduced and modeled by the clinician at the beginning of therapy.…”

“…While hormone therapy for female-to-male (FTM) TG persons usually results in a lower perceived pitch, it is not expected that hormone therapy common to MTF individuals would have a significant effect on pitch (Adler et al, 2006;Davies & Goldberg, 2006). For the pre-pubescent or pubescent TG client, maturity of sexual organs and production of sex hormones that cause voice changes can be suppressed using medication (e.g., gonadotrophin-releasing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone) (Bhasin, Safer, & Tangpricha, 2009).…”

Speech-Language Pathologists' Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Populations

“…Alignment of visual gender presentation and voice can be vital to a successful transition for some individuals. A significant factor in successfully and happily living as transgender is the ability to be perceived by other people as the preferred gender, especially in social and occupational circles (Davies & Goldberg, 2006). Referred to as passing or blending, this is helpful for acquiring and maintaining a job as well as a sense of security.…”

“…Yet, it can be difficult to find providers who are supportive of transgender people and who are skilled in the communication masculinization/feminization process (Davies & Goldberg, 2006). This barrier to essential health care for transgender people is one example of the health disparities seen within the LGBTQ population.…”