Domain Modeling and Conceptualization of a Theoretical Model for Sensory Response to Music

Sensory processing abnormalities present as one of the determining features in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The nature of the environmental world is comprised of intertwined, unorganized stimuli. The deficits in the processing of extraneous stimuli in multiple sensory modalities can result in children with ASD’s inability to demonstrate moment-by-moment integration, thus inhibiting the development of higher functioning. Presentations of hyper-reactivity, hypo-reactivity, or mixed types have been reported in the ASD literature. Clinically, assessments and interventions have been presented to address sensory sensitivity in people with ASD. Music therapy is an emerging non-pharmacological treatment for supporting children with ASD. Music, as an umbrella term, consists of musical elements that serve as essential determinants in eliciting behavioral, psychological, and physiological responses from the recipients. Despite the broad use of music therapy in the clinical setting with ASD individuals, the existing literature shows no music-based sensory assessment for ASD individuals. Limited understanding of sensory processing in ASD individuals and the complexity of music result in an inadequate and less effective design of music interventions. Using an evidence-centered design approach and concept analysis, the target domain of sensory processing and reactivity was analyzed and modeled with operationally defined essential constructs. The generated result comprises the theory-based ‘Sensory Response, Music Stimuli, and Arousal Model,’ indicating how layers of music elements could alter and affect an individual’s sensory response and arousal through direct manipulation of the complexity of the stimuli. The theoretically based relationships between each identified essential construct are discussed, and how this finding will further guide and inform an emerging assessment framework, assessment tool construction, and music therapy clinical practice.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Kansas

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Chen, Yi-ching

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Hanson-Abromeit, Deanna

• Music therapy
• Arousal
• Autism
• Music Stimuli
• Sensory Processing
• Sensory Response

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright held by the author.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

http://dissertations.umi.com/ku:18929

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:kuscholarworks.ku.edu:1808/38877