Abstract
Autism is a developmental disorder which is difficult to recognize and diagnose. The present study examines the effectiveness of music therapy intervention based on improvisational techniques with the elements of Creative Music Therapy by Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins and improvisational techniques by Tony Wigram (such as imitating, frameworking, dialogues, holding) on developmentl of children with Autism (two boys diagnosed with autism - case 1. and case 2), especially in verbal and nonverbal communication, disturbance behavior patterns, cognitive and social-emotional areas. The results indicate a positive outcome in two music therapy observing tools: Scale I Child – Therapist Relationship in Coactive Musical Experience Rating Form and Scale II Musical Communicativeness Rating Form. The tables indicate the intensity of interaction between the therapist and the subject during the music therapy process (including communication skills, cognitive skills and behavior patterns). The results of case 1 are indicated in Scale I and Scale II and show a significant effect of improvisational music therapy. The important findings from the analysis of behavior in the sessions were Stability and confidence in interpersonal musical relationship, Activity relationship developing, (scale 1.). The results of the case 2. show small changes in musical behavior when it comes to Stability and confidence in interpersonal musical relationship, but in Activity relationship developing the indicators show a lot of changes between sessions. The results of the research indicate that music therapy intervention has a positive outcome and may be an effective method to increase functioning of children with autism.
Highlights
Music therapy based on improvisation is an emotional, relational, motivational medium to communicate, express oneself and get the opportunity to understand others through music
The results of the case 2. show small changes in musical behavior when it comes to Stability and conÞdence in interpersonal musical relationship, but in Activity relationship developing the indicators show a lot of changes between sessions
The results of the research indicate that music therapy intervention in a child treatment program has a positive outcome and may be an effective method to increase a holistic functioning of children with autism
Summary
Music therapy based on improvisation is an emotional, relational, motivational medium to communicate, express oneself and get the opportunity to understand others through music. Music making together-improvisation- and reciprocal interaction between therapist and subject is meaningful and signiÞcant in the therapeutic process. A music therapist uses elements of music (rhythmic patterns, melody, beat, harmony, dynamics expression) which inßuence the subject’s developmental areas, especially the clients diagnosed with Autism. Improvisation as a therapeutic tool contains a musical structure and a clearly systematic approach which engages the child in a musical activity in a safe environment. These music therapy techniques provide musical variability and ßexibility to allow a therapist to get to the child in instrumental, vocal ways. Improvisation helps them to improve, develop and change their lives
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