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Development of an Orff music-based intervention program based on the PERMA model for children with cochlear implants: a Delphi study.

Huang, Y., Li, X., Rao, W., Sheng, X., Zhang, Y., Wang, L., Sun, Q., Shasha, Zhang, B.

BMC pediatrics

In plain language

This study explores the development and preliminary effectiveness of a music-based intervention program for children with cochlear implants. The program is grounded in the PERMA model of positive psychology, which focuses on five elements of well-being: Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Using Orff music therapy, the intervention aims to enhance auditory, speech, and psychosocial outcomes.

A panel of experts helped refine the program through a Delphi method, ensuring that it was well-rounded and comprehensive. The intervention was tested on 15 children over three months, showing significant improvements in the targeted areas. This suggests that combining music therapy with positive psychology principles can be beneficial in pediatric rehabilitation settings.

Key findings

  • The PERMA-based Orff music intervention improved auditory and speech outcomes in children with cochlear implants.
  • Psychosocial indicators also showed significant improvement following the intervention.
  • The intervention was well-received, indicating good acceptability and feasibility.
  • Experts reached a high consensus on the importance of the program components.
  • The study provides preliminary data for future, more rigorous trials.

Why it matters for flourishing

This research highlights the potential of integrating positive psychology with music therapy to enhance the overall well-being of children with cochlear implants, addressing both their physical and psychosocial needs.

Try this today

For parents and practitioners, this study suggests that incorporating structured music therapy into rehabilitation can support not just speech and auditory development but also the emotional and social well-being of children with cochlear implants.

How this research touches wellbeing

Which of Seligman's five PERMA pillars this finding speaks to.

Positive Emotion
8
Engagement
9
Relationships
7
Meaning
6
Accomplishment
8
PERMA