Researchers from the USC Viterbi School of Engineering and from the University of Utah developed an application that after listening to a couple's conversations, can predict the success or failure of the relationship better than a therapist.
In fact, the application boasts a precision of almost 79 percent. The predictions of whether a relationship improves or worsens over time is based on the tone of the voice used by couples when they talk to each other.
The program uses an algorithm that analyzes therapy sessions (marriage counselling, etc.) and was successfully tested during two recent years. He uses speech processing techniques that focus on timbre, intensity, and gloss – as well as slightly less quantitative measures, such as the use of verbs that tend to show increasing emotion.
The application is not plug-and-play. The program needs to attend multiple sessions to "map" the relationship.
"Looking at an example of a couple's behavior, we limit ourselves to our observation," said Panagiotis Georgiou, one of the researchers.
"However, looking at multiple points in time and looking at individuals as well as the dynamics of the couple can help identify the trajectory of their relationship."
According to the head of the project, Shrikanth Narayanan, the algorithm it does more than an analysis of discourse.
"It's not just about your feelings," he said. "It's a study of the effects of what your partner is saying about your feelings."
The findings of the study are, of course, a huge step in the analysis of things that once were considered to be very qualitatively measured effectively.
Researchers at this time are in the final plan to develop programs that will help in the monitoring of voice as well as body language to further strengthen the relationship.
Apps are not available to the public.
TNW
https://pressroom.usc.edu/words-can-deceive-but-tone-of-voice-cannot/
