music therapy
...effects on the listener), significant increases in caring, relaxation, mental clarity, and vigor were measured: significant decreases were found in hostility, fatigue, sadness, and tension. The results for New Age and classical music were mixed. Feeling shifts among subjects were observed with all types of music. Designer music was most effective in increasing positive feelings and decreasing negative feelings. Results suggest that designer music may be useful in the treatment of tension, mental distraction, and negative moods. Music Therapy is an established health care profession that uses music and music activities in treatment programs which address the physical, emotional, social and cognitive challenges faced by children and adults with diverse illnesses and special needs, and in wellness programs which promote the maintenance of good health in the general population. Music therapy is the specialized use of music by a credentialed professional who develops individualized treatment and supportive interventions with people of all ages and ability levels to address their social, communication, emotional, physical, cognitive, sensory and spiritual needs. Darrow, Gibbons, and Heller (1985) state that Medicina Musica establishes eight arguments that remain central to the theory and practice of music therapy today. These are: that success in music (from a therapeutic standpoint) does not depend on attaining a ...