The use of music therapy in autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Music therapy is a recognized intervention for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It involves structured activities that encourage children to listen, move, vocalize, sing, and play instruments. During musical engagement, the interplay of sensory, emotional, and cognitive processes forms a dynamic system involving complex interactions between the body, mind, and environment. This study aimed to investigate the effects of music therapy on communication skills, language development, and social interaction in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This randomized controlled trial included 60 children (2.5–7 years) of both sexes diagnosed with ASD and with an IQ ≥ 75, during the period from 2020 to 2021. Patients were divided into two equal groups: group (A) was enrolled for music therapy; group (B) was enrolled for traditional therapy. Both groups received a total of 48 one-hour sessions, administered twice weekly over six months. Significant improvements were observed in both groups across multiple domains. In Group A (music therapy), all measured parameters showed significant post-therapy improvement, except for semantic expression and adaptation to change. Additionally, there were significant improvements in post-therapy group B in Social IQ, ADHD scores, imitation, and object use. Music therapy demonstrated greater improvement than traditional therapy in the perception of semantic abilities, as well as more improvement in individuals with slight and mild autism than in those with moderate and severe autism, particularly in specific domains, such as ADHD symptoms, Social IQ, imitation, body use, and listening response.