Randomized trial demonstrates that music therapy enhances communication and behavioral development in autistic children, suggesting greater therapeutic value for mild symptoms.
Key Points
To evaluate the efficacy of music therapy on communication skills, language development, and social interaction among children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Conducted a randomized controlled trial of 60 children aged 2.5–7 years with autism spectrum disorder and an IQ ≥ 75 between 2020 and 2021.
Assigned participants equally to receive either music therapy (Group A, n=30) or traditional therapy (Group B, n=30), consisting of 48 one-hour sessions held twice weekly over six months.
Group A achieved significant improvements across all measured parameters except semantic expression and adaptation to change.
Group B experienced significant improvements in Social IQ, ADHD scores, imitation, and object use, though music therapy produced superior outcomes in semantic perception and mild symptom profiles.