Vocal Tone in Healthcare and Public Health

Research overview

The way we modulate our voice cues can have profound impact on others. Indeed, from motivational shouting at sports events to help others succeed, to comforting sounds when consoling the grieving, voice cues can be used to the benefit of others. Conversely, hearing someone yell at us when we’ve made a mistake or signalling disinterest in our problem when talking to us, will affect listeners in negative ways. Healthcare professionals and administrators’ communication is of vital importance in the health care sector and may impact upon not only patient satisfaction, but self-disclosure, self-esteem, adherence, decision making, and clinical outcomes. Poor communication may also contribute to health inequality. This research project will examine how the vocal tone in which messages are delivered affects outcomes in the listener.