Publication Date

2010

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Music therapy, Schizophrenia-Treatment, Mental illness interventions, Schizophrenia-Rehabilitation, Disabilities, Institute of Living

Abstract

This study was undertaken in order to examine and present a rationale for the use of music in a Schizophrenia Rehabilitation Program (SRP) for outpatients. It was hypothesized that a positive affective shift can be created in clients participating in group music psychotherapy. Study participants were enrolled from the SRP at Hartford Hospital's Institute of Living. Sixteen outpatients volunteered to participate in this study. After data collection was complete, effectiveness was determined through direct observation and participants pre and post self-report. In this quasi-experimental design, a paired sample T-test was used to analyze the quantitative results of affective significance. Sessions were examined using thematic analysis to determine qualitative common themes. According to the study's findings, negative symptoms of schizophrenia, including blunted affect, inability to feel pleasure and lack of interest in engaging or socializing, can be ameliorated with the use of music as a therapeutic intervention. In light of the limited efficacy of current treatments for negative symptoms, there is a significant need for effective psychosocial therapeutic treatment for persons with schizophrenia. Music is an effective tool for social workers to consider when looking at integrating an alternative treatment with this population.

Language

English

Comments

iv, 56 p. : col. ill. Thesis (M.S.W.)-Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Mass., 2010. Includes bibliographical references (p. 31-35)

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