The use of music in chronic illness: evidence and arguments

Pothoulaki, M., MacDonald, R. and Flowers, P. (2012) The use of music in chronic illness: evidence and arguments. In: MacDonald, R., Kreutz, G. and Mitchell, L. (eds.) Music, Health, and Wellbeing. Oxford University Press, pp. 240-256. ISBN 9780199586974 (doi: 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199586974.003.0018)

Abstract

This chapter presents a review of the current literature addressing the therapeutic use of music among those affected by: chronic illness, cancer, and cardiac disease. It includes a systematic analysis of each of these areas, highlighting music listening (both music therapy and other types of music listening) as the most prevalent type of music activity reported. Results suggest beneficial effects of music listening upon a range of physiological (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, enzyme production, respiration) and psychological variables (e.g., anxiety, mood, relaxation, pain). Theoretical integration and synthesis is then explored, with three mechanisms presented as possible explanations for the positive effects of music listening: musical communication as a form of social support; emotional engagement with music; and increased levels of perceived control.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Flowers, Professor Paul
• Authors: Pothoulaki, M., MacDonald, R., and Flowers, P.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISBN: 9780199586974