City Research Online

Abstract

Background and aims: Singers report high prevalence and increased impact of self-reported voice problems. The impact of genre on self-reported voice problems is unclear and studies comparing voice problems between genres is limited. Research suggests that adequately adapted coping strategies can help in management and prevention of health problems; however, this is relatively unexplored in the context of voice disorders, particularly in singers. This thesis aimed to identify self-reported voice problems, factors influencing vocal health and coping strategies in Western classical and Carnatic singers.

Methods: A mixed methods approach was used. Two systematic reviews explored self-reported voice problems and coping strategies respectively. Next, a qualitative study using framework principles gathered perceptions of three participant groups (Speech and Language Therapists, singing teachers and singers) regarding voice problems and coping in Western classical and Carnatic singers. Finally, an online survey investigated the research aims on a wide population of singers of both groups. The constructs measured were vocal impact (using Singing Voice Handicap Index-SVHI), vocal symptoms, coping (using Voice Disability Coping Questionnaire), illness perceptions (using Brief Illness perception questionnaire), and variables which may impact the voice. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to identify variables associated with vocal impact.

Results: The systematic reviews reported vocal symptoms (among classical singers) and coping strategies (among teachers); vocal fatigue and social support were the most frequently reported vocal symptom and coping strategy respectively. The qualitative study (n=19) and the survey (n=165) reported that the most frequently reported symptoms were vocal fatigue, reduced pitch range and vocal strain/effortful singing. Carnatic singers scored higher on all SVHI outcomes and reported more frequent symptoms. Information seeking was the most frequently used coping strategy among both groups; some group differences were also noted (e.g., reliance on religion for Carnatic singers). Frequency of vocal symptoms, coping, illness perception, positive attitude towards voice and performance anxiety were predictors of vocal impact. Strategies employed by singers to maintain vocal health are reported.

Conclusion: This research is the first of its kind to study self-reported voice problems and coping by comparing genres. An increased vulnerability among Carnatic singers, reporting more frequent vocal symptoms and higher levels of vocal impact is indicative of genre impacting vocal health. Influences of genre and culture were also evident in the choice of coping strategies between the groups. The predictors of vocal impact identified will promote better understanding for prevention of voice problems and maintaining vocal health.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	M Music and Books on Music > MT Musical instruction and study R Medicine > RF Otorhinolaryngology
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Healthcare Services Research & Management School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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