Feature geometry, underspecification and child substitutions

Authors

Cynthia Williams Core, Florida International University

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Major/Program

Linguistics

First Advisor's Name

Mehmet Yavas

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Kemp Williams

Third Advisor's Name

Feryal Yavas

Date of Defense

3-28-1997

Abstract

This thesis looks at two recent developments in phonology, feature geometry and underspecification. Three models for feature geometry (Bernhardt, Halle-Sagey and Clements-Hume) and principles of radical underspecification are studied using previously collected data from child substitutions which reflect normal and unusual substitution processes. The goal of the thesis is to determine the ability of the feature geometry models and underspecification to account for the differences between normal and unusual processes in a principled manner. The findings are that neither feature geometry nor underspecification when used alone provides a complete explanation for the difference between normal and unusual substitution processes. However, by incorporating principles of underspecification into the feature geometry models, the normal and unusual substitutions can be distinguished. Modifications to the feature geometries are recommended based on the findings.

Identifier

FI14061514

Comments

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Recommended Citation

Core, Cynthia Williams, "Feature geometry, underspecification and child substitutions" (1997). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2517.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/2517