PHONETIC VARIATION IN THE /T/ GLOTTALIZATION AMONG LONDON ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

This paper examines the phenomenon of /t/ glottalization within the context of London teenagers that shows interests in the phonetic variation in the given aspect of speech. The study focuses more on the use of /t/ glottalization and the implications of such usage by adolescents in various socio-economic classes as well as its linguistic and social interpretation. The study will use a mixed-methods approach that will entail acoustic analysis, supported by interviews and observations based on the samples of speech collected among adolescents (14-18 years old) in different boroughs of London. The study establishes a distinct relationship between the social class and the extent of glottalization such that the rate of glottalization is higher among working-class adolescents than in their middle-class counterparts. The findings indicate that /t/ glottalization is also a social remark and a phonetic variant in that it causes perception of identity and belonging among youngsters in London. The research helps in the knowledge of how phonetic variation can be engaged with social process in modern urban speech communities.