Updated Acoustic Normative Data through the Lifespan: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Speech and Hearing Sciences
• Acoustic Phonetics
• Voice Science

Background:

• Normative acoustic data are crucial for assessing vocal function in clinical and research settings.
• Existing acoustic data may not reflect current populations or capture full vocal variability.
• Lifespan acoustic data are needed to establish comprehensive reference values.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of recent literature to update normative acoustic data for individuals without voice disorders across the lifespan.
• To identify gaps in current acoustic data, particularly concerning demographic representation.
• To inform the development of a more inclusive and accurate acoustic data resource.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was performed adhering to the PRISMA-ScR Checklist.
• Extensive database searches were conducted across multiple academic platforms (Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, etc.).
• Data extraction focused on acoustic parameters from eligible full-text publications, including citation review for additional sources.

Main Results:

• Fifty-one additional resources were identified through citation review, with 28 sources included for data extraction.
• Lower fundamental frequency was observed in adult females; limited data existed for semitone range, sound level range, or frequency range.
• A predominant gender binary reporting was noted, with insufficient data on gender identity, race, or ethnicity.

Conclusions:

• The review successfully yielded updated acoustic normative data valuable for clinicians and researchers.
• Limited acoustic data across diverse gender identities, races, and ethnicities presents a barrier to generalizing normative values.
• Further research is needed to expand normative data to ensure equitable application in voice assessment.