Due to the positive effects on cognitive, communicative, and behavioral functions, physicians and therapists treating individuals with autism spectrum disorder should incorporate the use of music therapy into their patients’ treatment plans.
The most readily available treatment option for cognitive correction in autism is medication. Medicines such as antipsychotic drugs, stimulants, and antidepressants are used to target particular sections of the brain to alleviate different neurological impairments such as mood swings and seizures. Risperidone is a drug most commonly used among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is used to to reduce aggressiveness by limiting the increasing activity of the dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain (“Risperidone”). The difference in these levels has an overall positive effect on
…show more content…
reducing aggressiveness and irritability. However, it is not able to attack the core symptoms that are associated with ASD. These changed dopamine levels are not accepted by all individuals that are prescribed with Risperidone. Unfortunately, some are not affected by the medicine and do not show any signs of improvement or alleviation of symptoms. At this point, alternative medicines are considered, but many of them result in numerous, undesirable side effects. By utilizing music therapy in place of other medicines, the autism patients are able to receive a similar outcome of regulating dopamine levels with the additional benefit of stimulating more areas of the brain. Risperidone falls into a category of medicines known as antipsychotic drugs, many of which are considered “off-label” and are often times prescribed to age groups not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (“Medications for Autism”).
Since the possibility of the risperidone taking effect is not definite for all patients, music therapy is the most viable alternative that simulates the same parts of the brain. The risperidone takes effect by sending communications to the neurotransmitters in the brain, which send a signal for the release of chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Music therapy has been considered to be a “multi-modal” activity that utilizes both hemispheres of the brain as well as the mirror neuron system (Wan et al). The mirror neuron system is a critical portion in the symptoms of autism. With the use of music therapy, these mirror neurons are being used in such a way that allows for these people to socialize and interpret different social cues when interacting with others. This music association can be used among a patient’s music therapist and other physicians to maximize stimulation of all parts of the
brain. Musical techniques can be integrated to work in conjunction with different forms of developmental therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is most commonly used to stabilize emotions. CBT uses a method that allows for direct problem solving that is applicable to replace negative patterns of thinking that have effects on mood and functioning. As suggested by Scott Lindgren, Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Iowa, autism patients participating in CBT should use a structured, advanced treatment plan that challenges the cognitive functions in order to maximize effectiveness (Lindgren and Doobay). Depending on the needs of each patient, different methods can be adapted to fit an individualized treatment plan. Strategies such as singing, adding music rewards for achievements, and creating rhythm patterns and sound effects can all be crucial in the advancement of the development of brain cognition. This integration of music therapy techniques is the the most efficient tactic for improving cognition in patients with autism because in addition to the benefits they receive from their original therapy, they hasten the process of brain development. Works Cited Lindgren, Scott, and Alissa Doobay. "Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders: State of the Evidence." PsycEXTRA Dataset (2009): 15+. University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. The University of Iowa. Web. 24 Sept. 2015. "Medications for Autism." Psych Central. National Institute of Mental Health, 21 Dec. 2010. Web. 20 Sept. 2015. "Risperidone: MedlinePlus Drug Information." U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Web. 20 Sept. 2015. Wan, C., Demaine, K., Zipsea, L., Norton, A., & Schlaug, G. (2010). From music making to speaking: Engaging the mirror neuron system in autism. Brain Research Bulletin 82, 161-168. Web. 20 Sept. 2015.
Autism is a behavioral syndrome related to differences in brain functioning and sensory responses. The disorder impacts normal development of the brain in such areas as social interaction and communication skills, leading to a deficit in these areas. Recent studies have attributed this deficit and struggle with social interaction in children with autism to the mirror-neuron system not functioning properly. Researchers found that mirror neurons preform the same functions that are disrupted in Autism. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that one cause of Autism is a dysfunctional mirror-neuron system, given that the presumed functions of these class of neurons – such as empathy, intention-reading, mimicry, pretend play, and language learning- are deficient in autism. Studying the unexpected relationship between mirror neurons and autism is vital because this may have implications for the development of early behavioral interventions aimed at training basic mechanisms supported by the mirror-neuron system, rather than attempting to correct higher levels of complex behaviors.
In the absence of consistent, certain biomarkers, diagnosis of autism is based on well defined core behavioral symptoms: abnormal social interactions and social communication, and repetitive behaviors and/or restricted interests. Many drugs, including fluoxetine and risperidone, have been used to treat symptoms associated with autism. Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic that blocks D2 and 5HT2A receptors, has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce the repetitive behavior and self-injurious behavior in children with autism. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is being evaluated by the FDA for anxiety and repetitive behaviors in autistic individuals. Serotonin dysregulation is one theory for the etiology of autism (reviewed by Pardo and Eberhart, 2007) and has been linked with comorbid behaviors associated with autism such as depression, anxiety, mood, impulsivity and aggression (reviewed by Soorya et al., 2008; West et al., 2009). Both risperidone and fluoxetine act in the serotonin system. Risperidone antagonizes the serotonin 2A receptor and fluoxetine blocks the serotonin transporter increasing the amount of serotonin available in the synapse.
Music therapy can be combined with occupational to increase the benefits of the special education services. A significant challenge people on the autism spectrum face is effectively communicating their thoughts, desires, and emotions in a socially acceptable way. Using improvisation in music therapy can help students on the spectrum express what they are feeling. Learning to use musical elements such as dynamics, tempo, timbre, and form, can help this population demonstrate musically what they need to communicate. For example, if they are feeling sad, they might improvise with a slow tempo. If they are angry, their improvisation might be loud and fast.
Music therapy works because of its three fundamentals: the application of systematic thinking through music theory, the creation of an individualized treatment plan, as well as the patie...
For the purpose of these literature review a search was done using PubMed which is available through the Medical Library of the National Guard Health Services. This research focus is Autism and its management. Using these four key words "Autism" "definition" , "symptoms", and "treatment". As result, nine papers were found and this literature review summarizes them.
A way that in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders is using music therapy instead of play therapy as it increases turn taking and eye contact more than when play therapy is used (E-4). Eye Contact was even proved to be held longer during this study when the child was participating in music therapy activities than when they were in regular play activities(E-1). When a mother was quoted on the British Columbian Music Therapy website, she stated that the “skills and abilities acquired in the music therapy setting generalize widely across situations.
Music therapy not only works on adults in the workplace but also on premature babies, infants, and children as well.
Here, the person can do whatever he or she likes. For example, playing with toys, sleeping or doing a physical activity like running, swimming or climbing. Sports can also help to reduce repetitive movements, improve movement coordination and is a possibility to interacting with other people. In addition to clinical therapy and medicine. Music, animal and therapies have reported the the following benefits: increases in communication, reduction in stress, fear, aggression, improvements self-image and learning skills and overall reduction in autistic symptoms Autism spectrum disorder.
In summary, it is very reasonable to determine that music therapy has been a pronounced development. It has aided an abundance of people with dealing with all sorts of different issues they are faced with in everyday life; from emotional issues to illnesses. However, music therapy is not for everyone. There are many different types of therapies available for patients to choose from if they feel if music therapy isn’t for
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that effects the brains development. It is characterized by affecting communication, cognition and social interaction. The spectrum of the disorders ranges from a mild condition called Asperger’s syndrome to a more severe form, which severely impairer’s development. The Office of Communications and Public Liaison states that the disorder affects one and eighty-eight children, however ASD effects boys more frequently than girls (Office of Communications and Public Liaison, 2013). ASD emerges in all age, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. The significant varied character and severity of the disorder is why ASD is considered a spectrum that poses a broad range of symptoms.
Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic belonging to the chemical class of benzisoxazole derivatives. The chemical designation is 3-[2-[4-(6-fluoro-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl)1-piperidinyl]ethyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one. Risperidone is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia,bipolar disorder, irritability associated with autistic disorder). This medication can help you to think clearly and take part in everyday life. Risperidone is rapidly and well absorbed after oral administration and has high bioavailability.Metabolism is catalyzed by the liver cytochrome P450 (CYP) system, particularly by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4.9-OHrisperidone has a similar pharmacologic profile and potency as risperidone11;
...e to communicate with the people that have supported her throughout the whole process and others that she will meet in years to come. She is happy, intelligent, and is open to new foods and learning new things at an accelerating rate. Nicholas used to be antisocial and quiet around the other kids at his daycare. However, now has the confidence to make friends at daycare, interact with them, play with them and have the courage ride his new tricycle. His parents describe him as a “speed demon.” Music has helped him improve on skills he was lagging and has essentially built up his self-esteem. He has improved overall and completely changed. Music is extremely beneficial since it has helped expand therapeutic purposes for autistic patients like Ashley and Nicholas, but others that have been through severe trauma, a heart attack and patients suffering from cancer too.
... were CAM. Studies of individual aged 0 to 22 years old were included in this study and pharmacological and CAM treatments were included. It is shown that the intensity of the study was different from the involvement of the groups. Even though some of the interference were “effective’ but greater part was ‘ineffective’. Based on several review studies, not many medications have significant proof for their use and non-use. The choices for medical organization of complete reviews are reducing in autism, mainly reviews regarding pharmacological and CAM treatments. Moreover, certain reviews were most likely to highlight the common consequences of medication which aims a certain type of symptoms throughout the treatment. As a consequence, when selecting interference, it should be surrounded by the circumstance of the practice and escorted by the use of treatment plans.
Boxill, E. H., & Chase, K. M. (2007). Music Therapy: An Overview. Music Therapy for Developmental Disabilities (). Austin: Pro-ed. (Original work published )
Autism spectrum disorder is a disorder in which many children struggle with. Children, who have ASD, struggle with communication and social interaction. With this disorder, there are many things that can be put into place for a child who has ASD to be able to function “normally” on a daily basis. Music therapy is one strategy that has been proven to be very successful with a child, who has ASD, to be able to function “normally;” especially when it comes to their social and communication skills.