Music therapy as treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication1 .Music is great for individuals with ASD, because it interacts with the brain, contributing with cognitive and psychosocial benefits2,3. Furthermore, music is emotional and promotes movement synchronization, being a non-pharmacological option for the treatment of ASD3 . Objective: To investigate the positive impacts of using music therapy for cognition in patients with ASD. Methodology: Controlled and randomized clinical trials, in English, performed on humans, in the last 5 years, indexed on PubMed, were selected from the descriptors “autism spectrum disorder” and “music therapy”. This review was registered on PROSPERO by protocol 254495 and the PRISMA recommendation was used to improve its organization. Results: Music therapy was efficient in improving the symptoms of children with ASD, because of the better sensitivity of individuals to music than words4 . In addition, music is able to restore brain connectivity, which is altered in TEA5 . Musical and emotional attunement allows synchronization, integrating the senses and affective regulation, improving self-awareness6. During therapy, there was a reduction in the diagnostic scale of ASD, indicating an improvement in communicative and social skills. Furthermore, it was noted that children became more socially responsive, but there were differences, suggesting the need to balance individual and methodological treatment7 . Finally, music therapy contributes to children’s well-being and health8,9. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that patients with ASD can benefit from music therapy, as it explores and expands the physical and mental limits of the autistic person, stimulating agility, communication and motor control.