Between the distortion and the gradience: Deaf perception of Brazilian Sign Language Hand Shapes

Abstract

This study aims to observe whether and how Deaf users of Libras realize distortions in handshape (HS) during the execution of a Libras sign, and whether the hand's proximity to the face influences this perception. A group of Deaf signers analyzed video recordings of Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) signs divided into two distinct categories: a group of 10 signs produced near the face and another produced far from the face. Each sign had three performances: one correct, one with a slight alteration in finger selection, and one highly distorted. The results suggest that distortion is perceived as an inappropriate expression of an isolated sign. The significant difference in perception between mild distortions near the face versus far from the face indicates that the visual linguistic information provided by the face acts as a competitive stimulus. For this reason, facial context may inhibit the perception of mild handshape distortions produced near the face, whereas distortions produced in a location without such competitive stimuli are more readily noticed.