REFLEᵃCT

Formulating requirements and potentials for music therapy in the context of social inequalities and mental health

This research project aims to explore how the awareness and consideration of societal factors influencing mental health can enrich music therapy practice and open up new possibilities in working with people with various experiences of discrimination.

Experiencing discrimination, for example based on race, origin, sexuality, gender, socio-economic status or a disability/chronic illness, causes psychic strain and can promote mental health problems. In order for therapy to be a safe(r) space for persons with experiences of discrimination, it is important for therapists to face not only musical aspects but be aware of these societal influences on mental health.

In this project, an online survey was conducted in German-speaking countries to investigate in how far these interrelations are considered by music therapists. Through qualitative interviews, these perspectives will be complemented by those of persons who address discrimination in their artistic work or apply artistic strategies to maintain and restore mental health and well-being in the face of experienced discrimination. In addition, persons who work in the psychosocial field with different emphases against the background of an anti-discriminatory stance will be involved. Finally, it will be specified how and at what levels societal factors influencing mental health can be taken into account in music therapy and what potential this offers for music therapy.

 

Project lead: Julia Fent

Project staff: Alexia Astreinidi-Blandin, Monika Marik

Project duration: March 2023 – July 2024

Funding: Deutsche Musiktherapeutische Gesellschaft

Funding amount: EUR 19,941

Contact: fent@mdw.ac.at