“Sign exchanges”: characterization of phonological processes occurred during the Libras acquisition by deaf preschoolers

摘要

Purpose To describe the characteristics of the phonological processes found in deaf preschoolers’ sign language. Methods Fifteen deaf children aged 3 to 7 years participated in the study. Data collection was conducted by filming the application of the FONOLIBRAS test, which requires participants to name 50 figures in Libras (Brazilian sign language). Transcription was performed on SignWriting; Libras signals with phonological processes were classified by type, parameter, and hand(s) involved. Finally, the data received statistical treatment. Results All deaf children showed signs of linguistic variation in relation to the adult pattern, that is, phonological processes, confirming that these processes are a natural phenomenon of child development in sign languages ??as in spoken languages. The most frequent process was assimilation, while replacement, epenthesis, elision, and metathesis were also present. The hand configuration parameter was the most affected. The occurrence was greater in the passive hand. Conclusion As phonological processes are part of the acquisition of sign languages and can be naturally suppressed or not, these phenomena deserve the attention of professionals who work in the area of deafness in order to optimize the communication development of users of these languages.