Musical behaviors and preferences in emotionally disturbed and normal children: An exploratory study

Author(s): Marcus, Margaret L.

Journal/Book: Music Therapy. 1982; 2: 1-11.

Abstract: Examined the spontaneous musical behavior of 8 normal and 8 emotionally disturbed (ED) 7-10 yr olds to determine whether there were differences between them and where such differences existed. Five categories of musical behavior were studied: instrument preference, rhythmic behavior, vocal behavior, verbal behavior, and interaction style. Each S participated in an individual 30-min music session once weekly for 7 wks, and data on each of the 5 categories were recorded in each session. Results show differences between Ss' rhythmic behavior and verbal behavior: ED Ss demonstrated a higher incidence of disordered beating, with frequent stops and starts, irregular patterns, and inconsistent tempo. With regard to verbal and vocal behavior, ED Ss made significantly more irrelevant comments and more tonal responses. It is concluded that musical differences between normal and ED children could lead to the use of music as a diagnostic indicator and assessment tool in the psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational treatment of children. (18 ref)

Note: musical behaviors & preferences; emotionally disturbed vs normal 7 10 yr olds; treatment implications

Keyword(s): Emotionally disturbed; musical ability; school age children; music therapy; childhood

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