The Effects of Music Therapy on Social and Communication Development in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Trend Analysis and Policy Recommendations for Thailand
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Abstract
Music therapy has been widely recognized for developing social and communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, no literature review has compared the effectiveness of music therapy on social and communication development in children with ASD between international and Thai contexts. This article examines four key issues: (1) effectiveness of music therapy in international contexts; (2) effectiveness in the Thai context; (3) cross-context comparison; and (4) challenges and policy recommendations for Thailand. The literature review reveals empirical evidence supporting music therapy effectiveness in both contexts. International research demonstrates diversity in study designs, particularly randomized controlled trials with large samples and standardized assessment tools, while Thai research predominantly consists of case studies and quasi-experimental designs with small samples but strengths in family involvement integration and Thai musical instruments application.
Cross-context comparison reveals similar limitations: lack of long-term follow-up, need for standardized assessment tools, and requirement for larger sample sizes. However, Thailand faces specific infrastructure challenges, including shortage of certified music therapists, lack of formal integration into healthcare and special education systems, and limited research funding. This article proposes three policy recommendations for Thailand: (1) supporting long-term research and developing culturally appropriate assessment tools; (2) integrating music therapy into healthcare and special education systems through personnel development, practice standards establishment, and interdisciplinary referral system creation; and (3) promoting family involvement through guideline development and parent training programs. Implementing these recommendations will enhance music therapy service quality and sustainably improve quality of life for children with ASD and their families in Thailand.
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ข้อความรู้ใดๆ ตลอดจนข้อคิดเห็นใดๆ เป็นของผู้เขียนแต่ละท่านโดยเฉพาะ คณะมนุษยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยนเรศวร และกองบรรณาธิการวารสารมนุษยศาสตร์ฯ ไม่จำเป็นต้องเห็นพ้องด้วย
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