Music, as a form of therapy, has steadily grown as an effective intervention for a variety of populations. Drumming, in particular, has been identified as a form of healing for centuries and remains a tradition in a variety of cultures today. In the field of recreational therapy, therapeutic drumming may prove to be a valuable intervention in developing programs for selected populations. There has been a great deal of clinical research supporting therapeutic drumming, much of which relates directly to recreational and rehabilitative purposes. Overview The drum, over the centuries, has been depicted in healing rituals, with images of figures holding drums embellishing the walls of caves and archaeological sites around the world. More recently, the therapeutic effects of group drumming have been explored, which has led to research studies that provide 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 considered one of the oldest instruments in world history, the drum also has different values and benefits in a variety of cultures. For example, drumming in American Indian culture is a traditional activity that has been enjoyed and used throughout the 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 often 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 the community context... at the center of the document... as experienced by participants in a structured program of daily services for drug addicts. Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy, 12(6), 477-491. Dickerson, D., Robichaud, F., Teruya, C., Nagaran, K., & Hser, Y. (2012). Battery use 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 percussion and psychiatric rehabilitation. PsychosocialRehabilitation 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!”: Improvised use of popular music for a man with schizophrenia. Nordic Journal of Music Therapy, 17(1), 67-77.
tags