The Problem of Pleasure in Music Therapy

Abstract

This article explores ideas around the potential value of pleasure within music therapy processes. It sets out to review and develop theory through the use of an abductive approach whereby texts are related to clinical experience and empirical material. As an initial context for the exploration, the music therapy literature is searched for reflections on pleasure. The question of whether pleasure is worth pursuing is addressed through a brief exploration of some relevant texts in Western philosophy and psychology. These literature reviews suggest that there is need for more exploratory and reflective work on pleasure within music therapy. As a contribution to this, material from a qualitative research interview with a client is presented. This material is seen in relation to relevant theories on music, mood and emotion, and implications for music therapy theory and practice are then examined.