Symbol and structure: music therapy for the adolescent psychiatric inpatient

Abstract: This thesis is a discussion of music therapy for the adolescent psychiatric inpatient. It is based upon psychoanalytic theories of personality development and pathology and is influenced by the author's own memorable experiences with music during the adolescent years - the belief that theses types of beneficial musical experiences could also help sick adolescents to become well. A comprehensive theory of music therapy for the adolescent psychiatric inpatient population is presented including a general explanation of music therapy and information about adolescents who have been hospitalized for psychiatric treatment, their responses to hospitalization, why music therapy is appealing, and how it is an aid both in the transitions of adolescence and hospitalization and in identity formation. The concepts of symbol and structure are discussed to explain the mechanisms that account for the success of music therapy with this population. The theory is then discussed with some general applications to clinical work (the importance of the therapeutic relationship, the stages of therapy, musical activities of the session, and verbal activities of the session). Guides for assessment and diagnosis are given. Finally, the theory is exemplified via specific clinical techniques (instrumental improvisation, songwriting, precomposed songs, music listening, teaching music skills, and talent show) and case vignettes.

Keyword(s): Adolescent, psychiatric-patient, symbol, structure.

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