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The benefits of culturally informed music therapy: community-based music therapy for older adults among ethnic Chinese immigrants
Thesis   Open access

The benefits of culturally informed music therapy: community-based music therapy for older adults among ethnic Chinese immigrants

I-Ting "Rachel" Hsiung
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Jun 2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00002032
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Abstract

Community-based music therapy Culturally informed music therapy (CIMT) Chinese immigrants
This culminating project focuses on developing a culturally informed, community-based music therapy approach for older adults among ethnic Chinese immigrants. This population has faced discrimination and oppression, particularly in the historical context of both the United States and ethnic Chinese communities during and after World War II. The author examined the historical and cultural experiences of Chinese immigrants from their home countries and the United States, integrating these experiences with the unique characteristics and identity of this population. The project was further developed into a culturally informed, community-based music therapy approach by identifying and sharing culturally specific themes within eight music therapy group sessions conducted by the author. Given that the author shares this bicultural identity with group members, she assessed how these themes emerged in sessions, influenced by both participants and the author herself. The insights provided highlight the influence of cultural norms, beliefs, and unique musical experiences within this community, This approach reframes Western-based music therapy knowledge and practices into an integrated method tailored to this population.

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