The Australian Journal of Music Therapy (AJMT)

Volume 9, 1998

Lem, A

EEG reveals potential connections between selected categories of imagery and the psycho-acoustic profile of music. 3-17
Twenty-seven healthy adults, M=12, F=15, age range 20-38, mean age 24.19, participated in an EEG study investigating potential connections between the listener's imagery and selected structural features of music. The stimulus was Konzertstuck for Harp and Orchestra Op. 39 by Gabriel Pierné. Examine were (2) ongoing relationships between general tendencies in the EEG activity and the psycho-acoustic characteristics of the stimulus, as designed by (a) the intensity of sound and (b) the profile of affective expression within the music, and (2) associations between the most frequently observed patterns of EEG activity and the listeners' verbal reports. Assessment suggested that - after the initial increase in alertness - the listeners responded to the music with a progressively deepening counterarousal, and that the ongoing direction of this response was in negative correlation wit the direction of the psycho-acoustic intensity produced by the music. The Fisher exact probability test revealed a strong (p=0.01937) association between the presence of transient isolated discharges in the EEG and the occurrence of visual imagery. This finding, assessed with reference to the ongoing psycho-acoustic profile of the stimulus, suggested that visual imagery occurred to the listeners most frequently during rapid, large-scale releases of musical tension. The overall psycho-acoustic structure of Konzertstuck is discussed with reference to its potential ability to facilitate the flow of mental imagery. Recommendations are made for future research.

Hogan, B Approaching the end of life: A role for music therapy within the context of palliative care models. 18-34
When people are dying, they undoubtedly fluctuate through various psychological states. Authors have tried to incorporate these psychological states into theoretical models that describe the process of dying. The purpose of this article is to present a relative discussion of four theoretical models drawing on the early work of Kubler-Ross (1969) compared to later models that outline the psychological states and phases experienced during the process of dying Levine, 1986, Buckman, 1989, and West, 1994). One of these models (West, 1994) has suggested ways that music therapy can support terminally ill patients through the dying process. Incorporating a brief review of other relevant literature, these suggestions will be discussed. Clinical vignettes will also be presented to illustrate how West's (1994) theoretical model may be incorporated into music therapy practice with terminally ill patients. With an heightened awareness of these suggestions and theoretical models of the dying process supported by examples of how they are applied, music therapists will be better informed in their clinical work with terminally ill patients.
Skewes, K & Thompson G The use of musical interactions to develop social skills in early intervention. 35-44
This paper investigates the benefits of using music and musical interactions to help young children with a variety of disabilities develop social skills in an early intervention setting. The use of improvisation techniques and songs in the development of social skills are examined and described in case examples. The sessions provided opportunities for the children to develop the complex skills necessary for social competency through interacting musically with their peers and adult team members. Social skill development and competency, music therapy theories, and benefits of group and individual sessions are explored. It is suggested that music therapy has much to offer the young child with disabilities in acquiring the skills necessary for social competency.
Han, P The use of music in managing pain for hospitalised children. 44-56
A study of the research literature indicates neurological, physiological and psychological links between music and pain. Various theories are presented to describe the effect of music on pain perception. Music therapy techniques used to alleviate pain for hospitalized children are illustrated through case studies.