Short-term effects of improvisational music therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder: findings from the TIME-A randomised trial

Abstract

Background: Previous meta-analysis provided some evidence that music therapy (MT) is more effective than standard care for improving social interaction, non-verbal and verbal communication, initiating behaviour, social-emotional reciprocity, social adaptation and parent–child relationships.Methods: Children (4;0–6;11 years) with autism spectrum disorders were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: low-intensity MT (once per week), high-intensity MT (three times per week) or standard care over a period of five months. The effect of MT was measured using Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Social Responsiveness Scale and visual analogue scales for quality of life at baseline, 2, 5 and 12 months. Analysis was done by intention-to-treat.Results: About 364 children with autism spectrum disorders were recruited in nine countries (Australia, Austria, Brazil, Israel, Italy, Korea, Norway, UK and USA). MT was well accepted by the participants, as indicated by high follow-up rates. Effects of MT on autis...