The use of music therapy and assistive technology in promoting expressive communication in a boy with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Introduction. Effective communication is one of the fundamental developmental goals of every child, as it enables independence and equal participation in all important areas of life. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience difficulties in the development of functional speech, pragmatics, and prosody. Objectives. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a music therapy intervention supported by therapeutic storytelling and a medium-level assistive technology device (the “Talking Photo Album”) on expressive communication and social skills in a boy with autism spectrum disorder. The specific objectives were to: (1) encourage vocal and/or verbal reproduction of short phrases with an intensity similar to the model, and (2) achieve at least three reciprocal interactional turns (therapist–child) within a single session. Method. A case study methodology was employed. The intervention lasted six weeks and included initial and final assessments, along with the use of a personalized therapeutic story and song. Assessment was conducted using the IMTAP scale (Individualized Music Therapy Assessment Profile), with a focus on the domains of expressive communication and social skills. Results. The results indicate improvements in the domain of expressive communication, particularly vocal expression, as well as in social skills, reflected in more frequent reciprocal interactional exchanges. Conclusion. These findings suggest the potential value of integrated therapeutic approaches in promoting communication in children with autism spectrum disorder.