Samtale og musikkterapi i fengsel - En kvalitativ studie om hvordan to musikkterapeuter bruker samtale med innsatte i forbindelse med musikkterapi i mannsfengsel

Abstract

This study explores how two music therapists in male prisons use verbal conversation with inmates in conjunction with music therapy. This includes conversations within the music therapy session and the before, after and in-between conversations that occur outside of the music therapy session. Data were collected from one focus group interview with two music therapists who work or had worked in prison for a minimum of three years. The participating music therapists use verbal conversation in various settings, but the most important place for verbal conversation seems to be during breaks after music has happened. They find that using a natural way of being while also keeping a professional demeanor works best to support verbal conversation. For some inmates, it seems that music therapy serves as a refuge from the demands and dynamics of prison life, and a place where conversation can unfold on one’s own terms and without pressure. For others, music is perceived as being the only meaningful way to express themselves, making verbal conversation seem extraneous. The participating music therapists’ experience in prison is that verbal conversation and music can facilitate each other, with one leading to the other and vice versa. The study also shows that there are potential gender differences regarding the use of verbal conversation in this setting. These findings can inform music therapy education, and research on user perspectives and potential gender differences is indicated.