Why Music Therapy for Individuals with Diagnoses on the Autism Spectrum?
The literature reports that most individuals with autism respond positively to music (DeMyer, 1974; Edgerton, 1994; Euper, 1968; Snell, 1996; Thaut, 1992). • People with diagnoses on the autism spectrum often show a heightened interest and response to music, making it an excellent therapeutic tool to work with them. • Music is a very basic human response, spanning all degrees of ability/disability. Music therapists are able to meet clients at their own levels and allow them to grow from there. The malleability of music makes it a medium that can be adapted to meet the needs of each individual. • Music is motivating and enjoyable. • Music can promote relatedness, relaxation, learning, and self-expression. • Music therapy addresses multiple developmental issues simultaneously. • Music therapy can provide success-oriented opportunities for achievement and mastery. • The structure and sensory input inherent in music help to establish response and role expectations, positive interactions, a
