Normative Data for Voice Range Profile (VRP) of Young Adults - A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: A comprehensive assessment battery for individuals with dysphonia should encompass various aspects of voice use. This study aimed to create a normative reference dataset for voice range profiles of young adults. Method: voice range profile recording from 80 healthy individuals (males and females) aged 18 to 25 years. Seven voice range profile variables were examined including habitual frequency, minimum and maximum Fundamental frequency and intensity, along with their respective ranges. Result: An age-specific voice range profile normative dataset was established. Mean and standard deviation values were as follows: Habitual fundamental frequency - 207.79±45.34 Hz, Maximum fundamental frequency - 425.46±93.37Hz, minimum fundamental frequency - 178.08±47.30Hz, Fo range - 253.67±89.26Hz, maximum intensity - 82.43±7.60dB, minimum intensity - 67.18±5.81dB and intensity range - 15.25±7.16dB. Conclusion: The normative dataset designed for young adults, serves as a valuable resource for optimizing voice assessments. It particularly benefits young adults experiencing dysphonia. Key words: voice range profile, fundamental frequency, frequency range, intensity range