Music therapy for adolescents in a child welfare setting - a qualitative interview study

Abstract

In this article, we explore challenges and possibilities as expressed by young people who participated in a music workshop in Norway (MWS). The participants in the workshop had a background referred to as looked after children (LAC) in the Norway. All participants had experiences with foster care or/and residential care. The music activities they reported on took place in a public “cultural house”, and included listening to music, songwriting, playing in a band and performing, led by music therapists. The study is based on a qualitative research methodology, using a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews, where we ask the following research question; What are the challenges and possibilities of participating in community music therapy for looked after children who have been removed from their families by Norwegian child protection service? To answer this question, we interviewed eleven young adults between the ages of sixteen and 23. We identified three themes; Music is a vehicle for the creation of meaning in a challening life situation, Building peer relationships and sharing life experiences through participation in the music workshop and Dealing with complex emotions and identity through music therapy. Findings are discussed in the light of theoretical perspectives on child protection, music therapy and psychology, and more specifically, trauma informed care and community music therapy. Implications for practice and research are highlighted. We suggest that work with LAC should follow a person oriented and community-oriented approach, where the child is empowered to take part in activities in community settings where support can be found from peers and adults.