Puberphonia, also known as mutational falsetto or functional falsetto, is a voice disorder that affects individuals who continue to use a high-pitched voice after puberty. It is characterized by the habitual use of a falsetto or high-pitched voice, which can sound unnatural and out of place for an adult.
During puberty, the voice typically undergoes a process called vocal mutation or voice change. This is when the larynx (voice box) grows in size, the vocal cords lengthen and thicken, and the voice becomes deeper and more resonant. However, in individuals with puberphonia, this process does not occur as expected, and they continue to use a higher-pitched voice similar to that of pre-puberty.
There can be various reasons why someone may continue to have a high-pitched voice at the age of 20 or beyond. One possible cause is a failure of the vocal cords to fully lengthen and thicken during puberty. This can result in a lack of vocal cord tension and inadequate closure, leading to a higher-pitched voice.
Psychological factors can also play a role in puberphonia. Some individuals may develop a habit of using a high-pitched voice due to emotional or psychological reasons. This can be a way of seeking attention, avoiding confrontation, or feeling more comfortable in social situations.
It is worth noting that puberphonia is more common in males, but it can affect individuals of any gender. It is often seen in adolescence or early adulthood but can persist into later stages of life if left untreated.
Fortunately, puberphonia can be successfully treated with voice therapy. A speech-language pathologist or voice therapist can help individuals with puberphonia learn proper vocal techniques and exercises to lower their voice and achieve a more natural, adult-sounding voice.
Voice therapy for puberphonia typically involves exercises to increase vocal cord tension, improve breath support, and develop proper resonance. These exercises may include pitch glides, yawn-sighs, humming, and other vocal warm-ups. The therapist will also work on correcting any incorrect vocal habits and teaching healthier vocal production.
In some cases, psychological counseling or therapy may also be beneficial to address any underlying emotional or psychological factors that contribute to the use of a high-pitched voice.
It is important to seek professional help if you are concerned about your voice being too high at the age of 20 or beyond. A speech-language pathologist or voice therapist can assess your voice and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
A high-pitched voice at the age of 20 or beyond could be a result of puberphonia, a functional voice disorder where individuals habitually use a falsetto or high-pitched voice after puberty. This can be caused by physical factors, such as a failure of vocal cord lengthening and thickening during puberty, as well as psychological factors. However, with the help of voice therapy, individuals with puberphonia can learn to develop a more natural, adult-sounding voice.