Medical Music Therapy

The purpose of the current study was to examine current medical and nursing students' perceptions and knowledge of music therapy as an adjunct medical treatment option. Additionally, study examined whether their attitudes and opinions act as a barrier, preventing music therapists from practicing in the medical field. The researcher aimed to answer three questions: Do current medical and nursing students understand how music therapy can be used in the medical setting? Do medical and nursing students understand the credentials, qualifications, and role of music therapists? Are medical and nursing students interested in working with music therapists in their chosen medical setting? Participants for this survey were current medical and nursing students enrolled in summer classes at the undergraduate level at Florida State University. A total of 79 student participants completed and returned the survey. Medical students totaled 45, while the remaining 34 participants were nursing students. The findings of the present study are largely consistent with the findings of the extant research regarding medical and nursing student perceptions of music therapy. Although the participants have generally positive perceptions and opinions of music therapy, their knowledge of the profession remains limited. A review of the relevant literature, detailed results of the present study, and implications for future research are discussed.