Validation process of voice self-assessment instruments in Brazil

ABSTRACT

Objective

to characterize and reflect on the process of cultural equivalence and/or validation of vocal self-assessment instruments translated and adapted to the Brazilian Portuguese, used in clinical practice and scientific research.

Research strategy

The search of articles was carried out in the following databases: SciELO, LILACS, PubMed and “The Cochrane Library”.

Selection criteria

The studies were selected regarding the presence of the descriptors cited in their title, abstract or in the list of descriptors; validation articles of a self-assessment instrument in voice or with the objective of performing cultural equivalence; to be directed to the Brazilian population; original studies with a sample of human beings; regardless of the age of the life cycle, type of dysphonia or vocal symptoms.

Results

Nine articles were selected. Quality of life in voice and vocal handicap were the most addressed constructs. Most validations occurred in the Southeast region of Brazil. The scores of the instruments is calculated by a simple sum of the answers given by the participants in the items; cutoff points are not always presented. The domains of the instruments, as well as the items that compose them, were maintained as presented in the instrument in its original. The most common statistic for instrument analysis was Cronbach's Alpha coefficient.

Conclusion

The constructs most addressed in the selected articles were quality of life in voice and vocal handicap index. The instruments were considered valid and sensitive for vocal self-assessment, even not considering the international proposals for validation of health instruments.

Keywords:
Validation Studies; Inventories and Questionnaires; Self-assessment; Dysphonia; Voice Disorders