The Use of Music to Increase Self-Esteem in a Conduct Disordered Adolescent

Abstract

The purpose of this case study was to note the effect of individual music therapy sessions on self-esteem in an adolescent boy, “D.,” with a diagnosis of conduct disorder. Self-esteem was measured by frequency of both positive and negative self-statements and by the ability to accept positive comments appropriately. During the 12-week experimental period, the frequency of spontaneous negative self-statements decreased. Although the frequency of spontaneous positive self-statements did not increase, the frequency of prompted ones did increase. By Week 12, D. was able to list independently what he had done well at each session, and was able to accept positive comments from others appropriately. In addition, D.'s ability to list what he had done well and what he needed to improve was transferred to other disciplines.