Rap and singing are used by music therapists to enhance emotional self-regulation of youth: Results of a survey of music therapists in the Netherlands.

S. Uhlig, Theo Dimitriadis, Laurien Hackvoort, E.J.A. Scherder

Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Music therapists use rap and singing for at-risk youth and young adults in different treatment settings. However, it is unclear how often and what kind of interventions they apply, and what kind of treatment goals are pursued. The purpose of this study was to examine approaches of music therapists towards the application, frequency, and function of rap and singing interventions. Identification of these characteristics might support the refinement of these interventions and encourage detailed application.

A 25-question survey was administered to 336 qualified music therapists in the Netherlands: reflecting on the role of rhythm in rap and of melody in singing, assessing the frequency of both interventions in music therapy, and reporting specific treatment goals by youth population.

Results indicated that both rap and singing applications in music therapy can enhance self-regulative skills during the process of emotional expression. In particular, rap is significantly less frequent than singing but considered to decrease aggressive behavior. Singing is applied daily and associated with support of deeper emotional involvement. The results suggest the need for more consistent descriptions of interventions for the use of rap in music therapy practice, and the development of specialized protocols for research studying its effects for quality improvement.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)44-54
Number of pages10
JournalThe Arts in Psychotherapy
Volume53
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 Dec 2016

Bibliographical note

DOI 10.1016/j.aip.2016.12.001

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