Music Therapy to Promote Interpersonal Interactions in Early Paediatric Neurorehabilitation
Journal
Australian Journal of Music Therapy
Year
2009
Abstract
Interpersonal relationships are fundamental in successful neurorehabilitation (Gilbertson & Aldridge, 2008). However, an acquired brain injury has the potential to impact on an individual's ability to engage in interpersonal relationships, and subsequently, their potential to successfully participate in functional rehabilitation. This paper presents a clinical case study in which a paediatric patient with an acquired brain injury had the ability to talk but was unable to successfully interact with people. It is argued that the prosodic elements of music were successfully employed to initially engage the patient in musical interactions and subsequently combined music therapy/speech pathology interventions provided the patient with a non-verbal vehicle to rehearse interactive skills. This focus on increasing social capacity was fundamental in promoting engagement in functional speech rehabilitation for this patient. Literature from the clinical areas of paediatric and adult ABI, music neuropsychology and infant development are discussed as a theoretical basis for suggesting that music therapy can promote interpersonal relationships in early paediatric neurorehabilitation.
Music and Health Institute Terms
Children; Engagement Level; Functional Status; Music Therapy; Rehabilitation Exercises; Traumatic Brain Injury
Indexed Terms
Neurology; Rehabilitation; Pediatrics; Traumatic brain injury; Data analysis; Interpersonal communication; Interpersonal relationship; Neurorehabilitation; Personal relationships
Study Type
Editorial, Opinions, Position Papers
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Bower, J., & Shoemark, H. (2009). Music Therapy to Promote Interpersonal Interactions in Early Paediatric Neurorehabilitation. Australian Journal of Music Therapy, 20, 59-75. Retrieved from https://remix.berklee.edu/mhi-citations/1702