https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6427-5383
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Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), who exhibit developmental limitations in social-emotional interaction and communication, are widely reported to respond positively to music therapy interventions that incorporate active and improvisational techniques. The fundamental elements of music have been shown to bypass both cognitive and language impairments to help facilitate communication skills, form social relationships and promote cognitive progression. In recent years, computer technologies such as mobile devices and interactive motion capture systems are being developed to provide new approaches to music interaction. When included into new or existing music interventions, digital technology can enhance the music playing experience and motivate children to interact differently with their environment through providing novel and engaging approaches to music interaction and creativity. This review highlights the core symptoms of ASD and presents evidence that supports the use of music therapy techniques within the autistic population, underpinned by neurological studies reporting on benefits of musical intervention. Further to this, it is explained how new technologies such as mobile devices and multi-sensory computer systems can move beyond traditional music instruments to add additional dimensions to music therapy sessions. Finally, suggestions of future research are made alongside considerations in designing new and novel auditory interventions.
PUBLIC INTEREST STATEMENT
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are characterised as having developmental limitations in social-emotional interaction and communication, alongside displaying repetitive behaviours and interests. Autism is a lifelong condition and so the application of effective therapies to develop these core impairments is essential to promoting future independence and improving quality of life. Those with ASD have been widely reported to respond well to interactive and improvisational music therapy techniques, helping facilitate communication and emotional interactions that promote cognitive progression and develop social relationships. In recent years, computer technologies have been developed to provide new forms of music interaction, enhancing music playing experience, creativity and motivating those with autism to interact differently with their environment. This review highlights how technology can be used to move beyond traditional musical instruments to add additional dimensions to music therapy sessions. Finally, suggestions of future research are made alongside considerations in designing novel auditory interventions.
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Notes on contributors
Daniel Johnston
Daniel Johnston is a PhD student in Music Technology at the Department of Electronic Engineering at the University of York. His research is based on the application of interactive spatial audio systems into novel immersive interventions for individuals with autism, focusing on addressing difficulties in auditory processing.
Hauke Egermann
Dr. Hauke Egermann is an Assistant Professor in Music Psychology at the Music Science and Technology Research Cluster at the University of York and is the director of the York Music Psychology Group. His research is focused on the effects of music on recipients, embodied musical cognition and the implementation of these findings into music technology.
Gavin Kearney
Dr. Gavin Kearney is an Associate Professor in Audio and Music Technology at the Department of Electronic Engineering at the University of York. His research interests include spatial audio and surround sound, virtual and augmented reality, spherical acoustics, interactive audio systems, recording and audio post-production technique development.