Factor Analysis of Hoarseness

Abstract

1. Analyses of 16 various hoarse voice samples by semantic differential method revealed that hoarseness consits of 4 factors, which may be represented by R (rough), B (breathy), A (Asthenic), and N (semi-normal). Factor N can reciprocally replaced by factor D (degree of hoarseness.) 2. Two simple methods of assessing hoarseness as regard to the 4 factors mentioned above were devised. The results of single entry method, the method to represent hoarseness by one of the 4 factors demonstrated high consistency among different judges and with those of the semantic differential method. The quaternary rating method in which the voice is rated on the 4 factors has an advantage to disclose more detailed content of the 4 factors. Conversion of the results by the quaternary rating into single entry form confirmed high consistency between the two methods.