Exploring the Mechanisms of Emotion Elicitation and Regulation through Music in Music Therapists

This qualitative study investigates the personal emotional experiences and strategies employed by music therapists in India for emotion elicitation and regulation through music. Fifteen certified music therapists participated in semi-structured interviews. An explanatory qualitative research design was employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of these concepts. Interviews were meticulously transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis revealed five broad themes and focus on the integration of personal and professional realms in music therapy, emphasizing tailored interventions, cultural inclusivity, and the transformative potential of music in emotional regulation. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies with diverse samples, investigation of technique efficacy across populations, and exploration of cultural competence in music therapy practices.