Therapeutic Use of Drumming Description

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Music, as a form of therapy, has been steadily growing as an effective intervention for a diversity of populations. Drumming in particular, has been identified as a form of healing for centuries and remains a tradition in a variety of cultures to this day. In the field of Recreation Therapy, therapeutic drumming can prove to be an invaluable intervention in program development for select populations. There has been a substantial amount of clinical research that supports therapeutic drumming, much of which relates directly to recreational and rehabilitative purposes. Overview Drumming, over the ages, had been depicted in healing rituals, rich with images of figures holding drums embellished on cave walls and archeological sites all over the world. More recently, the therapeutic effects of group-drumming have been explored which has led to research studies providing an evidence base for considering drumming as a therapeutic intervention in its own right or as part of other programs (Blackett & Payne, 2005). In addition to being regarded as one of the oldest instruments in world history, the drum has also held different values and benefits across a diversity of cultures. For instance, drumming in American Indian culture is a traditional-based activity that has been cherished and utilized over centuries to promote self-expression and healing (Dickerson, et al., 2012). Potential Target Groups Therapeutic drumming is commonly used in a variety of healthcare settings. It is frequently used in mental health settings, as a therapeutic intervention for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, substance abuse, dementia and social and emotional disorders. In community settin... ... middle of paper ... ...ng as experienced by participants on a structured day services programme for substance-misusers. Drugs: Education, Prevention & Policy, 12(6), 477-491. Dickerson, D., Robichaud, F., Teruya, C., Nagaran, K., & Hser, Y. (2012). Utilizing Drumming for American Indians/Alaska Natives with Substance Use Disorders: A Focus Group Study. American Journal Of Drug & Alcohol Abuse, 38(5), 505-510. Longhofer, J. (1993). African drumming and psychiatric rehabilitation. Psychosocial Rehabilitation Journal, 16(4), 3. Maschi, T., & Bradley, C. (2010). Recreational Drumming: A Creative Arts Intervention Strategy for Social Work Teaching and Practice. Journal Of Baccalaureate Social Work, 15(1), 53-66. Solli, H. (2008). "Shut up and play!": Improvisational use of popular music for a man with schizophrenia. Nordic Journal Of Music Therapy, 17(1), 67-77.

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