Hearing attitudes: tone of voice and its effects on listeners’ wellbeing and disclosure

This thesis investigates how speakers’ vocal expressions shape listeners’ affective and behavioural responses across interpersonal, workplace, and cross-cultural contexts. Specifically, it addresses three key research questions. First, how might a speaker’s interested-sounding voice elicit listeners’ disclosure and wellbeing differently than an uninterested-sounding voice, and how do these outcomes vary across cultures? (Chapter 2). Second, do differing voice patterns influence work commitment, state of wellbeing, and flourishing among listeners? (Chapter 3). Third, what psychological impacts, disclosure responses, and affective states arise when listeners are exposed to varying voice patterns across real-life contexts? (Chapter 4). The overarching aim of this thesis is to examine how the nuances of vocal tone (beyond the semantic language) affect relational dynamics, emotional states, and behavioural outcomes. Employing both experimental and cross-cultural methodologies, the studies provide empirical evidence that vocal tone not only communicates affect but also carries the power to shape disclosure, wellbeing, and commitment in diverse settings.