Web-Based Perceived Present Control Intervention for Voice Disorders: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: Voice disorders are common and negatively affect various life domains such as occupational functioning and emotional well-being. Perceived present control, a factor that is amenable to change, may reduce the effect of voice disorders on these outcomes. This pilot study aimed to (1) establish the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of a web-based perceived present control intervention for individuals with voice disorders and (2) gather preliminary data on the effectiveness of the intervention. This study is the first to assess whether a web-based psychological intervention would decrease self-reported voice handicap in this population.

Methods: Participants (N = 20) were recruited from an otolaryngology clinic at a large, Midwest university and the surrounding urban community, and completed a 3-week web-based intervention that incorporated psychoeducation and written exercises on increasing perceived present control.

Results: Supporting feasibility, the intervention components had high completion rates (75%-95%). Most participants planned to continue the perceived control exercises after study completion and would recommend the intervention to others, demonstrating usability and acceptability. There was a significant decrease in self-reported voice handicap (Voice Handicap Index-10) from pretest (M = 18.38, standard deviation = 4.41) to post-test (M = 15.22, standard deviation = 4.55) with a large effect size (within-group d = -0.86, P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Focusing on perceived present control as a teachable skill may be a useful addition to voice disorder treatment armamentarium. Future studies will incorporate a comparison group and larger sample sizes to assess further the role of perceived present control interventions in voice care.

Keywords: dysphonia; intervention; perceived control; psychology; voice.