Are music-based interventions a way to improve executive function in autism?
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Abstract
Executive functions (EFs) play a vital part in planning and organising everyday life, and they are directly linked to tasks like problem solving and language skills. Furthermore, weaknesses in EF are frequent in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Since music therapy is gaining popularity as a treatment and education technique with this population, it seems important to examine its effects on EFs. This study seeks to evaluate the potential of music-based interventions to influence EFs, and to discuss its value in music therapy and special education research. A total of 12 studies were included in the research. As most research is focused on active music making in healthy subjects, its effects on EF in autism must be deduced and discussed based on the literature. The findings of this study can contribute to open new perspectives in music therapy research, and to create innovative approaches for children with ASD.
Keywords: Executive function, autism, music therapy, special education.
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