Breaking through the shell : effects of music therapy on individuals with autism

Abstract

Some say it has the power to heal the soul. Others say it soothes the savage beast. Music holds tremendous power. Although music has been used for healing since ancient times, music therapy as a clinical practice developed in the twentieth century and has recently become a popular tool for treating those with autism. Through the use of music therapy methods, positive effects have occurred in the areas of cognition, daily living, and socialization for those with autism.