Thesis
The perceived effects of music therapy on the mental and physical health of hospitalized adolescents with cystic fibrosis
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Aug 2006
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-3759
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that mainly affects the digestive system and the lungs. An individual needs to manage his/her illness on a daily basis through various medications and therapeutic regimes. Hospitalization is often necessary for medical management or complications of the disease. Although the average lifespan of an individual with cystic fibrosis is 40 years of age, some still die as infants, children and young adults. There is no cure. Music therapy may successfully enhance the well-being of hospitalized adolescents both emotionally and physically. The music therapist often addresses issues through fostering creativity, developing a supportive relationship, providing an outlet for expression and other participative methods. The purpose of this study was to determine how young patients with cystic fibrosis perceived the effects of music therapy during their hospitalization. By way of personal interviews with six subjects the researcher has examined the outcome of music therapy as understood by the patients. The most prevalent effects appeared to be in the cognitive and emotional response areas, with subjects reporting an improvement in coping skills, self-discovery, self-confidence, and a change in perspective, as well as decreased isolation and improved mood. Many subjects reported imagery experiences that provided for a change of mental focus to less stressful perspectives. A variety of physical benefits were reported by all of the subjects and several also reported positive interactions with the therapist and others during music therapy. These findings support the use of music therapy for hospitalized adolescents with cystic fibrosis and suggest that music therapy has benefits that are encountered and recognized by these patients. The results of this study will be useful for music therapists, educators and other health professionals in developing a better understanding of the benefits experienced during music therapy by the hospitalized adolescent with CF.
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Details
- Title
- The perceived effects of music therapy on the mental and physical health of hospitalized adolescents with cystic fibrosis
- Creators
- Caryn S. Widrick - DU
- Contributors
- Paul Nolan (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Creative Arts Therapies; College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 3759; 991014632413604721