Adaptation and validation of the Persian version of pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI)

Abstract

Background and objectivesThis study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the Pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI). Materials and methodsThe questionnaire was translated into Persian and then administrated to the parents of 45 dysphonic children and parents of 135 normal children. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by eight speech-language pathologists. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were measured via Cronbach's alpha and intra-class correlation coefficient, respectively. Independent-samples t-test was used to evaluate the discriminative and clinical validity of Persian pVHI. ResultsCronbach's coefficient values were excellent for the total score (α = 0.94) and physical subcomponent (α = 0.91). Moreover, these corresponding values were satisfactory for functional (α = 0.82) and emotional (α = 0.79) subcomponents. Test-retest reliability for the total score was high in both dysphonic and control groups (intra-class correlation coefficient> 0.92). There were significant differences between the control and dysphonic groups in terms of the total score and all subcomponents scores of Persian pVHI. However, no significant difference was observed in the mean total score of the Persian pVHI between the control and dysphonic group regarding gender (P < 0.001). DiscussionPersian version of pVHI is a valid and reliable tool to evaluate the severity of voice disorder and its negative effects on the daily life of Persian children with voice disorder from the Parents' viewpoint.