A qualitative analysis : the effect of music therapy on a person with intellectual disability

Authors

Coyle, Sheila

Issue Date

2011

Degree

BA (Hons) in Social Science

Publisher

Dublin Business School

Rights

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Abstract

This Final Year Project will look at the effects that music therapy has on autistic individuals. People with intellectual disability frequently experience communication difficulties and behavioural issues. This study was carried out with the use of Qualitative Analysis. It involved interviews with care assistants obtaining their views on music therapy. The study investigates the different effects that music therapy has on a person. The themes examined were Emotions expressed by the clients, Communication, Effects and Benefits of Music Therapy. The results showed that music therapy had a significant effect on the person’s communication, behaviour and the expression of emotions. It showed that they experienced many emotions ranging from happiness to shyness to excitement. It also helped them communicate more and helped compensate for their lack of ability in some areas. Author keywords: Music therapy, intellectual disability, effects, communication