Music therapy is a process that helps developmentally disabled people improve their mental and physical abilities as well as their self-esteem. Music therapy addresses needs and fosters relationships between the therapist and the individual. Music therapy is not only therapeutic for the ear but the mind and body as well. During the interaction, it is essential for people with disabilities to have to look forward to an activity that is both advantageous and encouraging. Interaction teaches the person how to communicate better and improve decision-making skills. It also facilitates communication and socialization among family members or staff and the person. Communicative development varies with individuals because of functioning ability. Therefore innovative communication tools increase a person’s ability to initiate, anticipate, engage, and interact. At times, a person can have difficulty using objects based on joint attention, difficulty in interpretation, and motivation; however, since music is worldwide, people from different cultures can communicate through a common bond.
When people hear any genre of music, it can relate to a personal experience, whether positive or negative. When listening to an upbeat tempo composition, the person can feel either excitement or energy; conversely, listening to a classical piece may place the person in a soothing mood. Studies show that music affects any person's overall health, including respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure. Music therapy communicates with the body through beats, melodies, and lyrics and releases stress-relieving hormones. Living and managing a disability can be difficult for any person. A person can encounter many things while dealing with a disability, such as mental, emotional, social, physical, and behavioral issues.
People considered introverts can also benefit from music therapy because it provides a connection to the outside world without having to interact with others. The opportunity to use music therapy as a therapeutic tool can also help people diagnosed with psychiatric disorders by managing negative thoughts or dealing with traumatic experiences. Therapy tends to garner positive results and effectiveness when supported by the individual and their environment, including family, friends, community, and surroundings. With positive, consistent support, the person can improve social awareness, academics, gross and fine motor skills, and attention span. Music therapy can also decrease maladaptive behaviors and reinforce positive behaviors by engaging in preferred proactive activities. One joint facet of music therapy that usually yields positive results is karaoke. Karaoke is an interactive form of entertainment where amateur singers perform various songs with recorded music and lyrics. Karaoke is used to improve socialization with groups and the self-esteem of any person. The emotional uplift would be significant if an individual could perform a favorite song and receive praise from peers, family, or staff.
Music is a universal language used to bring people together from different or unique backgrounds. Different types of music and instruments help people cultivate current skills or develop new abilities. Music therapy is advantageous in building self-esteem and overall participation; therefore, a person with increased confidence can achieve attainable goals and foster long-term relationships.
