Motivational Stage Analysis of Patients with Behavioral Dysphonia

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the applicability of the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA)-VOICE scale before and after a therapeutic program for functional balance in voice production. Patients and Methods: The sample comprised 26 adult participants (18 female) from the ­Brazilian Public Healthcare System. The URICA-VOICE scale was applied prior to the intervention and after 10 sessions of a therapeutic program. Results: The motivational stage values were significantly increased after the intervention compared with the first application of the scale. Precontemplation and action were the stages most commonly reported by the participants. Significant differences were found in 6 statements of the URICA-VOICE scale after voice therapy. Conclusions: The motivational stage of the participants improved after voice therapy. Being motivated is important for adherence to behavioral changes regarding the voice, and this study shows that using the URICA-VOICE scale in clinical practice is essential to measure patient performance in the voice therapy process, as well as to determine the ideal moment of discharge.