On the structure of speaker–auditor interaction during speaking turns

TLDR

The study hypothesizes three signals—speaker within‑turn, auditor back‑channel, and speaker continuation—and proposes that their ordered sequences mark units of interaction during speaking turns. Using detailed transcriptions of language, paralanguage, and body‑motion behaviors in dyadic face‑to‑face conversations, the authors explored speaker‑auditor interaction and identified the composition of these signals. The study examines conversational analysis of speaking turns, back‑channel behaviors, and verbal‑nonverbal interrelations in American English (Chicago).

Abstract

ABSTRACT The structure of speaker–auditor interaction during speaking turns was explored, using detailed transcriptions of language, paralanguage, and body-motion behaviors displayed by both participants in dyadic, face-to-face conversations. On the basis of certain observed regularities in these behaviors, three signals were hypothesized: (a) a speaker within-turn signal, (b) an auditor back-channel signal, and (c) a speaker continuation signal. These signals were composed of various behaviors in language and in body motion. It was further hypothesized that the display of appropriate ordered sequences of these signals by both participants, served to mark ‘units of interaction’ during speaking turns. (Conversational analysis; speaking turns; back-channel behaviors; interrelations of verbal and nonverbal behavior; American English (Chicago)).