The Role of Rhythm in the Development, Maintenance and Management of Stereotypic Behaviours

Abstract

Rhythm has long been used by music therapists and others as a means of redirecting individuals with specific difficulties towards effective learning and social engagement. There is a wide literature stemming neither from musicology nor from music therapy which considers the role of rhythm within natural child development. This review describes how rhythmic processing has been conceptualised as facilitating learning in the mainstream child. It is widely postulated that rhythmical movements, typically thought to promote physical development, can present inappropriately, resulting in maladaptive distraction to a child's development. These actions, referred to as ‘stereotypic behaviours’, are discussed in relation to a number of rhythm-based strategies suggested in the literature as having a role in minimising the presentation of such behaviours. The management of stereotypic behaviours, specifically in individuals with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), is also discussed.