Music technology in music therapy - A study of the possibilities, potential and problems around the use of music technologies in music therapy with youths and adolescents

Abstract

Music technology in music therapy - A study of the possibilities, potential and problems around the use of music technologies in music therapy with youths and adolescents. This qualitative study explores the usefulness of music technology in music therapeutic practice with youth and adolescents. Four music therapist`s reflections on their use of music technologies and on the possibilities, potential and problems of this use are explored through semi-structured interviews. In this hermeneutic study, theoretical perspectives from music sociology and music therapy are presented as a framework for the empirical explorations. This thesis explores music technology as physical objects and non-physical concepts in the context of working with youths and adolescents, how this applies to their identity development in a socio-cultural environment and how music therapists can use this knowledge to better engage with and assist these clients in music therapy. Several trends enlightening both positive and negative consequences of the use of certain technologies are discussed.