Continuity and change: 30 years of clinical music therapy in paediatric oncology. Issue 1 (1st June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kappelhoff, Gerhard; Griessmeier, Barbara; Köster, Wolfgang; Lorz-Zitzmann, Astrid
• Is Part Of: Nordic journal of music therapy. Volume 25:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 91
• Page End: 91
• Publication Date: 2016-06-01
• Subjects: Clinical music therapy -- paediatric oncology -- professional standards -- new projects and methods; Music therapy -- Scandinavia -- Periodicals; Music Therapy -- Periodicals; 615.85154
• DOI: 10.1080/08098131.2016.1180088
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0809-8131

Abstract

Abstract : Background : During the last 30 years, music therapy in paediatric oncology has undergone significant challenges – due to scientific and clinical progress. The developments of health politics as well as professional standards have impacts on this field of work. Objective : This roundtable wants to facilitate ideas for new projects and methods according to topical challenges: e.g. balancing long-term supportive psycho-therapeutic relationships with short-term interventions, or implementing new "experimental" techniques against or with "proven" ways of music therapy methods. Methods : Job descriptions for music therapists and guidelines of professional associations in paediatric oncology will be explained. Discussion : Are there corresponding new ways, techniques and methods in music therapy, regarding changes and progress in oncological science and treatment? Has pressure, workload and stress increased for music therapists under the circumstances mentioned above? Which aspects and orientations are still meaningful and have persevered despite new medical protocols and techniques? Conclusions : Music therapy in paediatric oncology has to be adapted both to specific changes in medical treatment and to general developments in childrens' and adolescents' use of music and socialisation.