The effect of the Tomatis® Method on self-regulation in a sample of South African university students.

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the extent to which the Tomatis® Method improves self-regulation in a sample of South African university students (N=49). Method: A concurrent, mixed method approach using a three-group pre-post, and repeated post- assessment design, was used. Results: The Tomatis® Method had a positive impact on hyporesponsiveness in the left ear and spatialization of the right ear, on introjected regulation and perseverance, as well as on psychological and social well-being. Benefits were also qualitatively observed regarding improved listening in social and academic contexts, attention and awareness, self-control and interpersonal regulation. Quantitative benefits regarding self-regulation obtained by the Tomatis group were shared to a certain extent by the Mozart group, while the benefits regarding well-being were only in comparison to the control group. Conclusions: The Tomatis® Method has potential to improve the self-regulation skills of tertiary students. However, more research has to be done, with larger random samples to determine the extent to which the findings can be generalized, as well as to determine the possible role mediating and moderating variables play in the relationship between listening, self-regulation and psychological well- being.