2024, Vol. 4, Issue 2, Part A
Music therapy improves executive functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder
Author(s): Mamta Sharma and Aashita Mehta
Abstract: This study investigates the effectiveness of Music Therapy (MT) in enhancing Executive Functioning (EF) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). EF, the brain's core for skills like planning and focus, can be targeted through MT interventions. It was hypothesized that Music Therapy would improve overall EF, particularly in sub-domains like inhibition, self-monitoring, shifting, and emotional control, within the experimental group compared to the control group. A pre-post assessment design was employed, involving N=100 children (Already diagnosed) with ASD. Divided equally, 50 children participated in the experimental group receiving bi-weekly 40-minute MT sessions for eight weeks. Music therapy incorporated rhythm and melody/swar-based activities. Executive functioning was assessed using the BRIEF-2 (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning) by (Gioia et al., 2015). Results demonstrated significant improvement in the experimental group's EF, with lower post-intervention scores indicating reduced dysfunctionality. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in EF between the control and experimental groups (F=64.775, p<0.01).
Pages: 46-50 | Views: 523 | Downloads: 324
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How to cite this article:
Mamta Sharma and Aashita Mehta. Music therapy improves executive functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder. International Journal of Research in Special Education. 2024; 4(2): 46-50.
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