Resources

Understanding Learning Disability

For clear definitions and guidance about learning disabilities in the UK, please visit:

link to NICE website and information about Learning Disabilities

Music Therapy:

For further information about the practice of Music Therapy please visit:

Research and Evidence Base

Music therapy is supported by growing evidence showing benefits in communication, emotional expression, social interaction, and wellbeing for people with learning disabilities and related conditions.

Key studies include:

M. Geretsegger, C. Elefant, K. A. Mössler and C. Gold, Music therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder, Journal of Music Therapy, 58(1) (2021), pp. 12–49, abstract available at: https://academic.oup.com/jmt/article-abstract/58/1/12/5911954

K. S. McFerran, G. Thompson and L. Bolger, The value of music therapy for people with intellectual disabilities: A critical interpretive synthesis, Nordic Journal of Music Therapy, 22(4) (2013), pp. 307–332, abstract available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24196841/

J. Lee, S. Hwang and S. Kim, The effects of music therapy on interpersonal skills and self-esteem in adults with intellectual disabilities, Arts in Psychotherapy, 41(5) (2014), pp. 568–574

P. Kern and D. Aldridge, Using embedded music therapy interventions to support communication skills of young children with special needs, Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 26(3) (2006), pp. 195–205, abstract available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/jmt/43.4.270

Music as Therapy International, Adults with Learning Disabilities and Music: Evidence Base Leaflet (2020), abstract available at: https://www.musicastherapy.org/wp-content/uploads/ALD-and-Music-Evidence-Base-Leaflet-2020.pdf