Symptoms of vocal attrition in women army instructors and new recruits: Results from a survey

Abstract

Symptoms of vocal attrition were surveyed with a questionnaire in 130 Israeli women army instructors, a high-risk group for vocal attrition, and in 386 Israeli women recruits, presumably a low-risk group. Results showed 1. a high prevalence of symptoms in both groups, but a significantly higher prevalence among the instructors; 2. significant correlation between number of symptoms and rapid, excessive, and loud speech habits in both groups; and 3. significant correlation between number of symptoms and difficulties in performing instructional duties. These findings suggest that 1. vocal attrition is related to both external demands on the voice and idiosyncratic speech habits; and 2. vocal attrition has a significant impact on performance and work-efficiency.