Music-Based Interventions for the Wellbeing of People in Prison: A Systematic Review

Journal

Victims & Offenders

Year

2025

Abstract

Music-based interventions are often used to improve the wellbeing of people in prisons. This systematic review evaluates the impacts of music-based interventions on wellbeing outcomes for both incarcerated adults and juveniles. Studies eligible for inclusion were limited to randomized control trials or strong quasi-experimental designs. Thirteen studies were deemed eligible and included in the review. Evaluated interventions included music-therapy, group music-making, choirs, and background music. Due to heterogeneity in interventions and outcomes, the effective direction of the interventions was plotted. Music-based interventions were generally linked to improved wellbeing outcomes across psychological/emotional, cognitive, and behavioral domains, however, effect sizes differed, and some studies showed negative effects. This review also highlights gaps in research for juveniles and women in prison and suggests future research should give closer attention to these populations.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Music-based Interventions; Wellness and Well-Being; Psychological Outcomes; Interpersonal Relations; Behavioral State; Emotional Functioning; Music Therapy; Prisoners

Indexed Terms

forensic; music-therapy; prison; wellbeing; youth justice

Study Type

Systematic Review; Quantitative Methods

PubMed ID

Publisher: Routledge _eprint: https://doi.org/10.1080/15564886.2025.2470772

Document Type

Article

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