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Network Analysis of the Vanderbilt Fatigue Scale for Adults
Cynthia R Hunter1, Michael S Vitevitch
1Department of Speech-Language-Hearing: Sciences & Disorders, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA.
Ear and Hearing
|December 5, 2025
Summary
Network science analysis of the Vanderbilt Fatigue Scale for Adults with Hearing Loss (VFS-A) revealed subtle differences in fatigue perception between hearing loss groups. This approach offers new insights beyond traditional scoring methods for speech, language, and hearing research.
Area of Science:
- Speech, language, and hearing sciences
- Network science applications
- Psychometric analysis
Background:
- The Vanderbilt Fatigue Scale for Adults with Hearing Loss (VFS-A) is used to assess listening-related fatigue.
- Traditional analysis of scales like VFS-A relies on summed scores.
- Network science offers novel analytical tools for complex data structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply network science methodologies to the VFS-A.
- To explore how network analysis can reveal insights not apparent with conventional methods.
- To demonstrate the utility of network science in speech, language, and hearing research.
Main Methods:
- Network science tools were employed to analyze the VFS-A.
- Items were represented as nodes, and response correlations as connections, forming a network.
- Microlevel (node strength) and mesolevel (communities) network measures were calculated.
Main Results:
- Average node strength differentiated VFS-A response patterns between listeners with no/slight and mild hearing loss.
- This distinction was not found using conventional summed scores, highlighting item relationships.
- Network analysis suggested potential for item reduction in large scales for treatment evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Network science provides valuable insights into the structure of the VFS-A.
- This approach can uncover differences in fatigue perception missed by traditional scoring.
- Network analysis holds promise for advancing research and clinical practice in speech, language, and hearing sciences.
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