Music therapy is a type of therapy that uses music to help people improve their physical and emotional health. In particular, it has been found to be beneficial for young children as it helps them develop communication skills and encourages creativity. Music therapy can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in children. However, there are ethical considerations when it comes to using music therapy with young children.
First, the therapist must ensure that the child’s safety is a priority during the sessions. It is important for the therapist to make sure that any instruments used are safe and appropriate for the age of the child they are working with. This includes making sure that there are no sharp edges or other potential dangers associated with any equipment used in music therapy sessions (Citron & Kesselring, 2017). The therapist should also be knowledgeable about how young children may react emotionally or behaviorally to different types of music so they can provide an appropriate environment and experiences tailored specifically for each individual patient’s needs.
Discuss music therapy in relation to young children. Consider what ethical implications might need to be considered
Second, therapists must consider cultural implications when utilizing music therapy with their clients (Thompson et al., 2019). It is important that all aspects of the practice reflect respect for different cultures by understanding how cultural beliefs could impact client responses throughout treatment sessions. This could include choosing songs from genres specific to certain cultures in order to help foster shared values between clinician and client as well as recognizing which musical styles may be seen negatively within certain cultures (Thompson et al., 2019).
Finally, therapists need to take into consideration issues such as autonomy when using music therapy with young children (Raphael-Greenfield & Reifel-Bealer 2020). Children have rights just like adults; therefore it is important for clinicians to encourage their patients’ autonomy by allowing them some control over what type of activities occur during a session based on their own interests or preferences( Raphael-Greenfield & Reifel-Bealer 2020). Additionally, practitioners should avoid coercive approaches such as forcing an individual into participation against his or her will because this could lead to feelings of resentment or mistrust between provider and patient which would not benefit anyone involved.
In conclusion, while there are many benefits associated with using music therapy in treating young children; practitioners must consider several ethical implications before engaging in this type treatment method due its potential effects on both physical and emotional development. To create a safe space where individuals can freely explore different types of musical expression without feeling pressured or coerced into participating; practitioners must prioritize safety measures regarding instrumentation usage while taking into account cultural influences which ultimately allows clients more autonomy over decision making process throughout therapeutic experience( Citron & Kesselring ,2017; Raphael-Greenfield & Reifel-Bealer ,2020 ; Thompson et al.,2019 ).