The Factors Contributing to Voice Disorders (FCVD) Questionnaire among Chinese Choristers: Reliability and Validity Assessment

Abstract

Background. Choral singing has gained popularity in educational institutions, communities, and universities, yet the escalating concern of vocal damage and voice disorders, particularly among amateur choristers, remains a significant issue. Despite advancements in vocal pedagogy and choral instruction, vocal health challenges persist.

Objective. To assess the reliability and validity of an updated self-assessment questionnaire known as the “Factors Contributing to Voice Disorders” (FCVD) among 176 Chinese choristers aged 13 to 25.

Methods. The FCVD questionnaire was designed from the review of literature, and Cronbach’s Alpha, test-retest reliability, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to test the reliability and validity of the FCVD questionnaire.

Results. Reliability analysis, utilizing Cronbach’s Alpha, demonstrated that the FCVD questionnaire exhibits high internal consistency. Additionally, the assessment of test-retest reliability, measured through the Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), yielded positive results, further reinforcing the instrument’s stability over time. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to establish the reliable and valid questionnaire.

Conclusion. This study indicated that the FCVD questionnaire has generally satisfactory reliability and validity in assessing voice-related factors contributing to voice disorders in Chinese choristers. Its application offers a promising avenue for enhancing vocal health awareness and interventions in the choral community.

Key Words. Choral Singing, Voice Disorders, Self-Assessment Questionnaire, Risk Factors, Chinese Choristers.

Zhang Lingrui, PhD student, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Department of Music, Faculty of Human Ecology– Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, MALAYSIA

Dr. Ang Mei Foong, Senior Lecturer, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Department of Music, Faculty of Human Ecology– Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, MALAYSIA

Dr. Indra A/p V Selvarajah, Senior Lecturer, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Department of Music, Faculty of Human Ecology– Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, MALAYSIA