The effect of interactive music therapy on behavior profile and social skills in young children with mild autism

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a musical training program based on interactive music therapy sessions enhanced the behavioral profile and the social skills of young children affected by mild autism. This study targeted thirty-two, 6-year and 7-year old male and female young children with ASD. All patients with ASD were chosen from a single community center specifically designed for individuals with Autism (Ahmad Riyad Jawhari Center for Autism, Orphan Welfare Society, Saida). A music intervention program was implemented in order to find its effects on the behavioral profile and social skills of those children affected with mild autism. Data was collected through observations and the use of rating scales (Social Skills Rating System-SSRS and Children Autism Rating Scale-CARS). This study addressed a gap in the Lebanese literature and contributed to better understanding of the issue.