Date of Defense

Spring 4-18-2012

Date of Graduation

Spring 4-28-2012

Department

Music

First Advisor

Edward A. Roth, Music Therapy

Second Advisor

Ben J. Atchison, Occupational Therapy

Keywords

Neuromusicology, combat-induced brain injury

Abstract

The number of reported cases of combat-induced traumatic brain injury (TBI) among American veterans is rapidly increasing. The results of TBI are often a combination of deficits in cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral functions. Each case poses unique challenges for all involved—soldiers, their families, and health care personnel. Though each case is unique, common symptoms include impaired gross and fine motor, speech and language, memory, attention, visual, auditory, and emotional functioning (Davis, Gfeller, Thaut, 2008).

Due to the holistic nature of TBI symptoms, finding an effective yet cost-efficient treatment modality proves to be a difficult task. Previous research has suggested that neurologic music therapy holds the potential to adequately address both the motor and cognitive/affective symptoms experienced by TBI patients (Thaut, et.all, 2009). More research concerning the use of music therapy in treatment of combat-induced TBI is necessary in creating and implementing successful programs to better serve our veterans.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

Download

Included in

Musicology Commons

Share

COinS