The Effects of Music Therapy upon an Adult Male with Autism and Mental Retardation: A Four-Year Case Study

Abstract

This case study describes the effects of music therapy on a 36-yr-old male with autism and mental retardation who participated in therapy sessions from 1993-1997. Treatment goals, objectives, and music therapy activities are discussed. The client's responses while on usual medications and while those medications were adjusted are presented. Clinical observations of treatment progress and a tally of behavioral objectives indicated that: (1) music therapy was a valuable ongoing leisure activity for the client; (2) certain music and non-music behavioral objectives were achieved and maintained over time and others were not as consistent; and (3) stable medication affected the client's ability to participate in music-therapy sessions. Implications for future research are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2000 APA, all rights reserved)