What is Psychophysiology of Voice?

20 Dec 13:10

4 min. read

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How is the voice formed?How does the psyche affect the voice?When do we use voice psychophysiology?How does voice affect us?Interesting facts about voice Psychophysiology of voice in your life

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Voice – is not just a sound we make to communicate. It is a powerful tool that is closely related to our psyche, emotions, physical condition and even social relationships. Voice psychophysiology examines how the work of our body (physiology) and psychological state affect the formation of the voice, and vice versa, how the voice itself can change our state.

What is voice psychophysiology?

This science at the intersection of psychology, medicine and linguistics studies:

How the voice is formed in the interaction of the nervous, respiratory and vocal systems.
How emotions, stress or joy change the sound of our voice.
Why the voice can be strong or shaking depending on our mood.

Our voice – is the "mirror" of our state. When we worry, the voice may seem weaker, and when we are confident in ourselves – it sounds clear and expressive.

How is the voice formed?

Voice arises due to the interaction of several systems:

Respiratory system: The lungs provide airflow that creates vibrations in the vocal cords.
Voice apparatus: The vocal cords in the larynx vibrate, creating a sound.
Resonators: The chest, throat, nasal cavity add volume and color to the sound.
Brain and nervous system: Manage the whole process, adding intonation and emotional touch.

This process works automatically, but depends significantly on our psycho-emotional state.

How does the psyche affect the voice?

Our voice changes under the influence of emotions:

In condition fear the voice can become trembling and weak. This is a natural reaction associated with stress and activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
In condition anger the voice rises, becomes sharper. This reflects the activation of energy in the body.
Joy makes the voice warm, soft, melodic.
In condition depressions or exhaustion, the voice sounds quiet and monotonous.

When do we use voice psychophysiology?

The voice is a universal means of expression that we unconsciously use in many areas of life:

In communication
The voice helps not only to convey information, but also to evoke emotions. For example, a calm and soft voice is soothing, while an aggressive one can scare or cause resistance.
In art
Actors and singers actively use the psychophysiology of the voice to evoke certain emotions in the audience. Singers train not only vocal skills, but also the ability to express feelings through intonations.
In psychology and therapy
Voice exercise-based techniques help people get rid of stress, find inner balance, or even overcome injuries. For example, the practice of "toning" (pronouncing sounds with a certain intonation) promotes relaxation.
In business communication
Oratory is impossible without work on the voice. Leaders, trainers, politicians learn to manage their voice to inspire trust and attention.
In self-expression and self-esteem
The voice directly affects how others perceive us. Voice training can increase self-confidence and improve interaction with people.

How does voice affect us?

According to psychophysiology, the voice can have a reverse effect on our body and psyche:

Low voice (with an emphasis on exhalation) helps reduce stress levels and calm down.
Loud sounds stimulate energy and activity.
Monotonicity able to introduce into a state of relaxation or even drowsiness.

Interesting facts about voice

During a scream, the level of pain decreases, so people instinctively scream in case of injuries.
People who speak clearly and with intonation seem more confident and competent.
The melodic voice is more actively perceived by the brain than the monotonous voice.

Psychophysiology of voice in your life

Everyone can work with the voice. This will not only improve communication, but also help to better manage emotions and physical condition. So the next time you feel stressed or tired, try singing calmly or making some relaxing sounds. Your voice — is a powerful resource worth using!