Music therapy treatment of pedophilia using the drum set

Playing with sound: The therapeutic use of music in direct work with children

“…Melody is seen as a ‘container’ for internal and relational conflicts as it is experienced linearly over time, whereas harmony, which is experienced in a single instant, through different notes being sounded simultaneously, is said to represent a general social environment in which the melody and the person finds themselves (Shields & Robbins 1994). Rhythm can represent the libido and provide a vehicle through which the personality can be projected (Kaser 1991). Music's primary theme of conflict‐resolution may provide the listener with the ego‐enhancing experience of mastery over difficulty (Noy 1967) whilst creative music‐making and active listening can be viewed as a way of unconsciously sublimating our instinctual drives in a socially acceptable manner (Noy 1967; Blatner 1992).…”

“…In later sessions he gradually invited me in to his play, at first commanding me to hold the triangle or tambourine as he hit it and eventually asking me to join in. Just as his behaviour changed in the session, James began to modify some of his more uncontrolled, unthinking and non-relating behaviours within the foster placement, supporting the views of Kaser (1991) and Wilson (1990) who suggest that the discipline of learning to modify the musical behaviour in the session (e.g. playing in tempo, matching speed and dynamics to the other's playing) will impact on the client's general mechanisms for self-control, increasing self-awareness and empathy.…”

“…The worker may notice the child trying to hide in the music, avoiding affect and direct conversations, perhaps about abusive situations or decision-making about his or her future. Kaser (1991) suggests that allowing such avoidance for a time can be appropriate, as encouraging regular positive and non-threatening contact between worker and client can develop trust and reduce anxiety before such issues are engaged with. I would support this, as most child clients have experienced extremely deprived childhoods, often having limited (if any) experience of a safe and containing relationship with someone else who cared about them, enjoyed their presence and thought they were of value.…”

“…Tape‐recording and immediately playing back any music created in the session may provide support to the child's sense of self (Alvin 1966; Kaser 1991). A tape recorder with a karaoke function can be particularly valuable as the microphone enhances the quality of recording and facilitates the child talking, singing and experimenting with vocal sounds.…”