Identity and Voice Therapy Outcomes:A Model for Adherence, Habilitation, and Rehabilitation of Voice
Channel: Annie Rubino
Date: 2020-05-15

Marianna (Annie) Rubino, MFA, MS, CCC-SLP, PhD Student, University of Delaware, arubino@udel.edu
Maria Dietrich, PhD, CCC-SLP, Assistant Professor, University of Missouri
Katherine Verdolini Abbott, PhD, CCC-SLP, MDiv, Professor, University of Delaware

Objective: We aim to define the relationship between personal/social identity and adherence to and outcomes of voice treatment.
 
Methods/Design: Using identity theory, connections will be drawn between baseline vocal behavior, activities during voice therapy, and outcome of voice therapy per completion of treatment and degree of habilitation/rehabilitation. New research using fMRI will be presented as preliminary evidence of change in identity with change in vocal behavior. Identity will be presented as a variable that affects adherence, habilitation, and rehabilitation of voice. 
 
Results: The model connects baseline vocal behavior to behavioral voice disorders to changes in vocal behavior suggested during voice therapy to change in identity to adherence/rehabilitation/habilitation or non-adherence/continuation of baseline vocal behavior and voice disorder. 
 
Conclusions: Consideration of identity in voice therapy is potentially paradigm-shifting. Placing systemic consideration of identity central to the voice therapy process could support adherence and predict better voice therapy outcomes.