A pilot study of music therapy in the treatment of children with developmental delay

Author(s): Gustroff, G., Neugebauer, L.

Abstract: In a crossover study of music therapy for children who are developmentally delayed, the children in the initial treatment group change more than the children on the waiting list. When the waiting list group are treated and then tested, the newly treated children catch up in their development. Such changes can be demonstrated at a level of clinical significance. There is a continuing improvement in hearing and speech, hand--eye co-ordination, and personal-social interaction. Music therapy seems to have an effect on personal relationship, emphasising the positive benefits of active listening and performing, and this in turn sets the context for developmental change. A further investigation of the data revealed the importance of hand-eye co-ordination for developmental changes. The active element of musical playing, which demands the skill of hand-eye co-ordination, appears to play a significant role in developmental changes as they occur in the therapeutic musical relationship.

Zurück | Weiter