Abstract
Human voice pitch research has focused on perceptions of attractiveness, strength, and social dominance. Here we examine the influence of pitch on selection of leaders, and whether this influence varies by leadership role. Male and female leaders with lower-pitched (i.e., masculine) voices are generally preferred by both men and women. We asked whether this preference shifts to favor higher-pitch (i.e., feminine) voices within the specific context of leadership positions that are typically held by women (i.e., feminine leadership roles). In hypothetical elections for two such positions, men and women listened to pairs of male and female voices that differed only in pitch, and were asked which of each pair they would vote for. As in previous studies, men and women preferred female candidates with masculine voices. Likewise, men preferred men with masculine voices. Women, however, did not discriminate between male voices. Overall, contrary to research showing that perceptions of voice pitch can be influenced by social context, these results suggest that the influence of voice pitch on perceptions of leadership capacity is largely consistent across different domains of leadership.
Highlights
Like non-human animals [1], humans respond to non-linguistic information encoded in vocal signals
In light of work showing that perception of voice pitch can be influenced by social context [9], the question remains whether the preference for leaders with lower-pitched voices is consistent across different leadership positions
Women’s Preferences As in men, Figures 1 and 2 show that female listeners preferred to vote for female candidates with lower-pitched voices running for School Board (t35 = 26.73, p,.01) and Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) President (t35 = 22.44, p = .02)
Summary
Like non-human animals [1], humans respond to non-linguistic information encoded in vocal signals. Men with lower-pitched (i.e. masculine) voices are perceived as more attractive [3], physically stronger [4], and socially dominant [5]. Recent research shows that voice pitch influences the selection of leaders. Both men and women prefer male leaders with lowerpitched voices, and associate lower-pitch with traits such as integrity, strength, and competence [7,8]. Men and women prefer female leaders with lower-pitched voices, and associate them with traits such as competence and trustworthiness [7]. In light of work showing that perception of voice pitch can be influenced by social context [9], the question remains whether the preference for leaders with lower-pitched voices is consistent across different leadership positions
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