The Use of Music with Hospitalized Infants and Toddlers: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

This clinical study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of music in decreasing stress behaviors exhibited by hospitalized infants and toddlers. The sample consisted of 27 hospitalized infants and toddlers, ages 5 weeks to 36 months, who had demonstrated stress behaviors (defined as crying, throwing objects, absence of vocalization, lethargy, and/or body tension) during 15-minute observation sessions. Each subject was assigned to a music program implemented by a Registered Music Therapist (RMT) on the Child Life staff. Programming included relaxation, didactic games, movement, and songs. Sessions lasted from 15 minutes to 1 hour. During the sessions, the subjects were observed and their behaviors were recorded on a checklist Results of the study indicated that music plus interaction with a music therapist effectively reduced stress-related behaviors.