Music is a part of our every-day lives. We sing it in the shower, listen on the way to work, and even during exercise sessions. While music is often considered to be therapeutic, it can be especially beneficial for individuals living with autism. Parents of children with autism or individuals who suffer from the condition themselves are often encouraged to work with a music therapist to ensure success when it comes to the use of music therapy. When used appropriately, it can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of the condition.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is traditionally defined as the process in which musical experiences—such as singing, song-writing, dancing, listening to, and discussing music—are used to improve or maintain current health status. Traditionally, music therapy is administered by a qualified music therapist, who often has a degree in recreation therapy. Recently, significant amounts of research in the field of clinical therapy, biomusicology, and psychoacoustics have found dramatic links between music and human behavior. Much of this research has led to many referrals to music therapists from physicians, psychologists, and occupational/physical therapists.
How is Music Therapy Used?
Traditionally, music therapists work with individuals who suffer from behavior or emotional-based conditions. In most cases, music therapy is used to soothe anxiety, decrease heart rate, and promote improved social interactions. In addition, music therapy has been found to be effective in managing symptoms of depression, and emotional/social deficits. In some cases, music therapy can also be used to treat physical disorders. One study in the United States found that stroke patients who were exposed to music for at least 15 one-hour sessions demonstrated greater improvements in gait than those who simply received traditional forms of physical and occupation therapy.
Autistic Children and Music Therapy
Recently, music therapy has increased in popularity as a form of treatment for adults and children living with autism. Autism is usually recognized as a behavior condition in which communication and social interaction is limited, and repetitive, restrictive behavior is common. In most cases, the condition is diagnosed prior to the age of three years. Though autism was once considered to be relatively rare, new diagnostic techniques suggest that as many as nine in 1,000 children and adults suffer from the condition.
While music therapy can be an effective form of treatment for a number of symptoms associated with autism, it has been found to be especially beneficial in the management of vocal deficiencies. Autistic children, especially, experience difficulties with vocalization, and may turn to hums, grunts, cries, and groans as a form of communication. While speech may be difficulty, research has found that many autistic individuals do not experience the same hardships when it comes to singing—and thus, many music therapists encourage this technique as a valid form of communication. In addition to initiating verbalization, the elimination of monotonic speech and echolalia, in which children repeat what is spoken to them, can be achieved through the use of music therapy. It is important to remember that all music therapy should be administered by an individual with significant amounts of education and experience to ensure satisfactory results.
Autistic children or adults with behavior problems may also benefit from music therapy treatment. In many cases, individuals diagnosed with autism exhibit a multitude of behavioral problems, including aggression, depression, or bullying. Music therapy provides individuals living with autism an outlet through which to express feelings, work out emotions, and develop new forms of coping strategies. In many cases, autistic patients who are undergoing treatment for behavior problems may also require on-going treatment from a primary care physician, occupational therapist, and psychiatrist.
In Conclusion…
Obviously, autism is a serious condition that can lead to life-long impairments in speech and behavior. With regular treatment, many of the most serious symptoms associated with the condition can be managed. While music therapy is often recommended for those suffering from autism, it may not be best for all patients. Those who are interested in learning more about music therapy should consult with a qualified professional in their area. In many cases, a primary care physician can provide guidance when it comes to selecting a music therapist.
For more information about the use of music therapy in the treatment of autism, please visit the following sites:
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