Music therapy for children on the autism spectrum: Improved social interaction observed by multiple informants across different social contexts

Introduction: In a previously published multiple case study in which 10 children on the autism spectrum were offered the “Papageno Music Therapy Program” (PMTP), a favorable development was found with regard to social interaction. As an extension of our previous study, we investigate if the progress can also be observed in a larger group, and whether these developments are generalized to other situations. Method: A non-experimental, pre-post measurement, multiple-informant design was used to monitor the development of these children in different social contexts. The observers were therapists, parents, family members and teachers. Forty children were observed over a 20-week period. Results: The study shows an improvement in the social interaction of children on the autism spectrum and supports the findings of our previous 10 children multiple case study. The agreement between the different informants was high. The Reliable Change Index (RCI), which examined the results at an individual level, confirmed a positive improvement for more than 32 participants (RCI > 1.96). All the informants saw progress, so it seemed that the development was also generalized to other situations. Conclusion: This study confirmed earlier research into the effects of PMTP on this group: Improvements in social interaction were visible during the course of the therapy. Informants observed this improvement not only within, but also outside the therapeutic setting. Overall, there were sufficient indications for PMTP having a positive effect on social behavior that warrant further evaluation through a controlled study.