Date of Award
Spring 6-6-2019
Document Type
Honors Project
University Scholars Director
Christine Chaney
First Advisor/Committee Member
Dr. Carlene Brown
Second Advisor/Committee Member
Dr. David Bradshaw
Keywords
posttraumatic stress disorder, neuroplasticity, neurorehabiliation, music, music therapy, trauma
Abstract
This review discusses the neurological components of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how both structures and processes in the brain are altered in individuals with the disorder, specifically the neural network that includes the prefrontal cortex, the hippocampus, and the amygdala. This impacts awareness and responsiveness to stimuli. After examining these aspects, invasive and non-invasive treatment approaches are examined, with a specific emphasis on the treatment approach of music therapy. Musical stimuli are processed in many areas of the brain, so it has therapeutic potential for modulating neurological changes. Music therapy applies music clinically to address a variety of goals for clients with PTSD, including emotional, social, and cognitive objectives. Music therapists with an understanding of neuroplasticity and neurological impairments associated with PTSD can approach their practice with more specific goals and strategies for helping clients recover.
Recommended Citation
Payne, Jordan Winter, "How Music Therapy Effects the Traumatized Brain: Neurorehabilitation for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder through Music Therapy" (2019). Honors Projects. 99.
https://digitalcommons.spu.edu/honorsprojects/99