Therapist and individual experiences and perceptions of music therapy for adolescents who stutter: a qualitative exploration

Introduction: Affective reactions frequently reported by adolescents who stutter include embarrassment, frustration, and feelings of anxiety about further stuttering. It is possible that music therapy could enhance stuttering treatment outcomes; however, little is known about how individuals who stutter, and therapists working with this group, view such therapy. The purpose of this study was to explore individuals who stutter and therapist experiences with, and perceptions of, music and music therapy for stuttering. This work is part of a larger mixed-methods project to explore the effectiveness and potential benefit of music therapy with adolescents who stutter. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six clinicians and three individuals who stutter. Interview data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Four themes emerged from participants’ accounts: (1) the experience of living with stuttering, (2) the importance of music in everyday life, (3) the application of music therapy in stuttering, and (4) recommendations for music therapy in the continuum of support services for individuals who stutter. Discussion: Participants in this study perceived music and music therapy to benefit individuals who experience stuttering, particularly within the context of mental health. There is agreement that song writing, improvisation and song singing are most useful when working with adolescents who experience stuttering