In the context of voice therapy, what does "yawn-sign" aim to achieve?

The aim of the "yawn-sign" technique in voice therapy is to promote relaxation of the vocal tract. When individuals yawn, there is a natural widening and relaxing of the throat and vocal tract, which can help alleviate tension in the voice. This relaxed state allows for better airflow and reduces strain on the vocal folds during voice production.

By incorporating the yawn-sign into voice therapy, the therapist encourages the patient to access a sensation of openness and ease in the throat, which is beneficial for voice production, especially for those who experience tension or misuse of their voices. The technique not only fosters relaxation but also aids in developing a more efficient vocal technique, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the voice. This method is particularly effective for voice users who may have developed unhealthy tension patterns in their vocal production.

While the other options address various aspects of voice therapy, they do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of the yawn-sign, which focuses on achieving relaxation rather than increasing tension or impacting pitch variability.