The effect of improvisational music therapy on the communicative behaviors of autistic children

Journal/Book: J Music Therapy. 1994; 31: 505 11TH St Se, Washington, DC 20003. Natl Assn Music Ther Inc. 31-62.

Abstract: Examined the effectiveness of improvisational music therapy on autistic children's communicative behaviors. 11 autistic children (aged 6-9 yrs) participated in individual improvisational music therapy sessions for 10 wks. The Checklist of Communicative Responses/Acts Score Sheet (CRASS) was designed and used to measure the Ss' musical and nonmusical communicative behaviors. Results support the efficacy of improvisational music therapy in increasing autistic children's communicative behaviors. Significant differences were found between the Ss' 1st session CRASS scores and those of their last sessions. Also, abrupt and substantial decreases in scores were noted for all 11 Ss when reversal was applied.

Note: Article CL Edgerton, 443 Forest, Charlotte, MI 48813 USA

Keyword(s): INFANTILE-AUTISM; ABILITIES; ECHOLALIA; Autistic children; verbal communication; nonverbal communication; behavior change; music therapy; school age children; oral communication; gestures ; childhood

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