Mapping the Landscape of Voice Complaints among Teachers: A Bibliometric Investigation

Abstract

Purpose: With the significant and growing interest in voice disorders among teachers over the last several decades, there is value in having a comprehensive overview of the current state of the field and its related research productivity. This study aims to provide an updated and comprehensive mapping of the intellectual structure and research evolution in the field of occupational voice complaints among teachers. Methods: A systematic review of scientific articles on occupational voice complaints among teachers published in the last two decades was conducted using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses statements. A retrospective bibliometric analysis was then performed using the Web of Science core collection and VOSviewer to identify scientific productivity indicators, including publications per year, productivity by country, journals, and most cited articles. Results: Based on the search eligibility criteria, a total of 473 articles were initially screened, and from this selection, 157 articles were identified as meeting the inclusion criteria and therefore included in the analysis. The analysis revealed a strong trend in scientific productivity, with a 300% increase in the number of publications during the last decade. The leading countries in publications on this field were Brazil, the United States, and Finland. The Journal of Voice, CoDAS, and Folia Phoniatrica et Logopaedica were the most frequently published journals. Additionally, the literature on voice complaints among teachers primarily focused on five conceptual clusters: vocal demand response, voice disorders, vocal health promotion, individual-associated factors, and voice symptoms. Conclusion: This study examines the growing literature on voice complaints among teachers over the past 20 years, identifying key countries, journals, and thematic clusters. The findings have important implications for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, providing insights for collaboration and guiding future advancements in the field.