Content-based validity evidence of the Acute Voice Fatigue Self-Perception Scale (AFA-Voz Scale)

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Acute vocal fatigue is a common complaint affecting voice users.
• Assessing vocal fatigue requires validated tools to understand its impact.
• The Self-Perceived Acute Voice Fatigue Scale (AFA-Voz Scale) was developed to address this need.

Purpose of the Study:

• To obtain evidence of content-based validity for the Self-Perceived Acute Voice Fatigue Scale (AFA-Voz Scale).
• To ensure the scale accurately reflects the key aspects of acute vocal fatigue.

Main Methods:

• The study followed Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing (SEPT) guidelines.
• Content was derived from systematic reviews on acute vocal fatigue.
• A committee of five experienced voice experts validated the scale items using a Likert scale.
• Content Validity Index (CVI) and Item Validity Index (CVI-I) were calculated.

Main Results:

• Acute vocal fatigue was identified across three dimensions: self-reported fatigue, physical discomfort, and voice use restriction.
• The AFA-Voz Scale includes these dimensions and an anamnesis section.
• Initial CVI was 0.96 (CVI-I: 0.8-1.0), improving to 1.00 after adjustments.

Conclusions:

• The AFA-Voz Scale items possess excellent relevance for evaluating acute vocal fatigue.
• The scale demonstrates high potential for clinical application.
• The validated scale is suitable for future research on vocal fatigue.