The effects of music therapy on the self-esteem of emotionally-disturbed adolescents

Journal/Book: Music Therapy. 1989; 8: 78-91.

Abstract: Examined the effects of music therapy (MT) on the self-esteem of emotionally disturbed adolescents (aged 11-16 yrs). 10 Ss received 6 wks of MT that focused on creative expressive activities within a group context. As controls, 9 Ss received 6 wks of verbal therapy treatment with parallel activities. All Ss were pre- and posttested with the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventories. No significant differences were found between the groups as a result of the treatment. However, differences were found in the processes of the 2 groups, as described in the daily notes. While no Ss in the MT group were disappointed or complained about their placement, all but 1 of the Ss in verbal therapy were disappointed about their placement. ABSTRACT 2: Self-esteem is a major concern in the overall treatment of emotionally disturbed adolescents. Music therapy has been demonstrated to be an effective modality for this client population and has also been shown to increase self-esteem. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the specific effects of music therapy upon the self-esteem of emotionally-disturbed adolescents. Nineteen subjects who were identified as emotionally disturbed participated in this study while attending a private school. Ten subjects received six weeks of music therapy treatment which focused on creative, expressive activities within a group context. As a control group, nine subjects received six weeksof verbal therapy treatment with parallel activities. All subjects were pre and posttested with the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. No significant differences were found between the groups (P<.05) as a result of the treatment. However, differences were found in the processe of the two groups as described in the daily notes.

Note: music therapy; self esteem; emotionally disturbed 11 16 yr olds

Keyword(s): Music therapy; self esteem; emotionally disturbed; school age children; childhood ; adolescence. music-therapy, adolescent, self-esteem, emotional-disturbance.

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