Music Therapy and Coping in Caregivers of Children with Cancer - Abstract
Caregivers of children with cancer are at risk for distress, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress symptoms. In particular, fathers of children with cancer present with unique coping challenges related to traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Identifying effective interventions to help these caregivers is critical. Creative therapies, such as music therapy, may be particularly beneficial. Prior research suggests that music therapies such as rhythmic drumming help individuals to relax and decrease anxiety and stress. The present article reviews literature on music therapy, rhythmic drumming in particular, as a potential therapeutic option for fathers of children with cancer. Further, the authors also propose a study designed to assess the feasibility and efficacy of music therapy in caregivers of children with cancer.