Music therapy: An explanation

Journal/Book: Journal of Music Therapy. 1973; 10: 172-176.

Abstract: Discusses music therapy as the scientific, functional application of music by a therapist who is seeking specific changes in an individual's behavior. It is stressed that the music itself is simply a tool for attaining predefined goals and lengthening the temporal commitment to the desirable behaviors elicited. The music therapist is particularly interested in the individual's nonmusical behaviors and in his development of motor, social, and educational skills rather than in his ability to become a polished musician. 3 basic elements in music therapy are discussed: a process inherent in the music itself, a process of self-organization, and the process of relating to others. These 3 processes are the basis of the therapeutic goals established for those children and adults who have physical handicaps, learning disabilities, or emotional disorders. Various techniques, e.g., behavior modification or client-centered therapy, may be utilized by the therapist to produce the desired behavior changes. It is noted that music itself possesses no magical powers but does cause an interaction between an individual and his environment.

Note: Using Smart Source Parsing Win processes & therapeutic goals; music therapy

Keyword(s): Music therapy

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