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Semin Speech Lang 2013; 34(02): 071-079
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1342978
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Children's Voice and Voice Disorders

Anita McAllister
1   Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
,
Peta Sjölander
2   Department of Health and Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
30 April 2013 (online)

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Abstract

This article discusses the differences between children's voices and adult voices. We give an overview of the anatomy in the head and neck and specifically the anatomy of the respiratory system and the larynx. We also describe the development of children's voices including different physiological measures and voice quality. The development and consequences for voice production and voice quality are addressed and related to gender differences in the growing child. We also discuss the prevalence of voice problems and hoarseness in children. Environmental and other factors contributing to voice problems in children are described, and finally, issues related to intervention and evidence-based practice are discussed.

Keywords

Children - voice - development - dysphonia - environment - voice therapy - evidence-based
 

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