Vocal Loading - Effect of Speaking Environment

Effect of Speaking Environment

Several studies in vocal loading show that the speaking environment does have a significant impact on vocal loading. Still, the exact details are debated. Most scientists agree on the effect of the following environmental properties:

  • air humidity - dry air increases stress experienced in the vocal folds
  • hydration - dehydration increases effects of stress inflicted on the vocal folds
  • background noise - people tend to speak louder when background noise is present, even when it isn't necessary. Increasing speaking volume increases stress inflicted on the vocal folds
  • pitch - the "normal" speaking style has close to optimal pitch. Using a higher or lower pitch than normal will also increase stress in the speech organs.

In addition, smoking and other types of air pollution might have a negative effect on voice production organs.

Read more about this topic:  Vocal Loading

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