Assessment of the Vocal Risk Screening for Choristers Scale

Choral singing has grown rapidly across schools, communities, and universities, celebrated for its social and educational benefits. However, the increasing vocal demands associated with choir participation have raised concerns regarding singers' vocal health and the need for preventive approaches. This study aimed to develop and validate a new self-report instrument, the Vocal Risk Screening for Choristers Scale (VRS-CS), to facilitate accessible vocal health screening and promote early identification of voice-related risk factors among Chinese choristers. The VRS-CS was initially constructed based on five domains identified from existing literature: dietary habits, speaking habits, health-related conditions, choral rehearsal practices, and peer influence. A total of 306 choristers aged 12 to 24 years participated in the study. Internal consistency reliability was examined using Cronbach's alpha, and test-retest reliability was evaluated through the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) over a four-week interval. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). The results showed excellent internal consistency (α = 0.881) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.986). Factor analyses confirmed a stable five-factor structure with satisfactory model fit indices (χ²/df = 1.866, RMSEA = 0.053, GFI = 0.916, CFI = 0.957). The findings provide strong psychometric evidence for the VRS-CS as a valid and reliable tool for evaluating behavioural, environmental, and health-associated risks to vocal well-being in choral settings. The scale offers practical value for educators, conductors, and clinicians in supporting early screening, promoting vocal health awareness, and fostering sustainable vocal practices among young choristers in China.

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