The Effects of Piano Duo-based Music Therapy Program on Disabled and Non-disabled Children’s Sibling Relationships and Interactions

Abstract

This study analyzes the effects of piano duo-based music therapy program on the sibling relationships and interactions of disabled and non-disabled children. For the research, three pairs of siblings consisting of children under the age of 18 with developmental disabilities and non-disabled children were selected. Using single-subject research design, total 12 sessions of a 40-minute the piano duo-based music therapy program were provided once a week for from Jan. 7th 2017 to Apr. 8th. Pre- and post-tests were performed before and after the program. The result of this study suggests that there was an general improvement in the scores for sibling relationships reported by the non-disabled children and the mothers. Sibling relationships score reported by the mothers from pair C decreased by 12%; however, pair C still showed decrease in scores for negative domains especially the sense of rivalry/competition score indicating a lower level of negativity in their sibling relationship. In conclusion, the study proves that piano duo-based music therapy program can influence the sibling relationships and interactions of disabled and non-disabled children. The study attempted to provide a basis for further researches investigating programs for disabled and non-disabled children’s sibling relationships and the therapeutic use of piano duo-based program.