Rhythm Responses in Emotionally Disturbed Children with Differing Needs for External Structure

Abstract

This study was designed to determine whether 24 emotionally dis­ turbed children with varying needs for external structure to control behavior had differing success rates on a rhythmic imitation task. Data were collected over five weekly testing sessions for individual subjects, who ranged in age from 11 to 15 years. Judges viewed video­ tapes to determine whether subjects correctly imitated congo drum rhythm patterns which had been presented on audiotape. Results showed subjects in the various structure need groups did not signifi­ cantly differ in their motor coordination scores and their Musical Aptitude Profile Tempo Subtest scores (Gordon, 1965). In addition, subjects’ rhythmic imitation responses did not significantly differ according to age and gender. Subjects in the mild need for structure group performed significantly better than subjects in the moderate and severe need for structure groups. The preliminary implication is, therefore, that rhythm may he an important and useful element to consider in assessment, evaluation, and subsequent music therapy plans for emotionally disturbed children in this age range. Addi­ tional research is necessary due to the restricted subject sample used in this study and the need to develop adequate instrumentation and methodology.