Effects of preferred music therapy on peer attachment, depression, and salivary cortisol among early adolescents in Taiwan

Aims: To explore the effects of preferred music therapy on peer attachment, depression, and salivary cortisol among early adolescents.

Background: As adolescents enter puberty, they start to seek partnering relationships among peers. Peer attachment is central for adolescents and greatly influences their physical and psychological development.

Design: A pre-test-posttest control group design.

Methods: The data were collected from July - October 2016. A total of 65 individuals were included. The treatment group received 40 min of music therapy twice per week over the course of 10 weeks. The control group maintained its typical routine. The research data were collected using structured questionnaires, including basic information, the Inventory of Peer Attachment, the Beck Depression Inventory-II questionnaires, and salivary cortisol concentrations. Statistical analysis methods included percentages, chi-square tests, t tests, analyses of covariance, and the Johnson-Neyman technique.

Results: There were statistically significant differences in peer attachment, depression, and salivary cortisol levels in the music group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the findings showed that early adolescents with more severe depression experienced greater improvement through preferred music therapy.

Conclusion: The results allude to the beneficial effects of receiving preferred music therapy in terms of the peer attachment, depression, and salivary cortisol levels of early adolescents. Adjustments should be made based on the characteristics of student groups to develop suitable and safe music therapy and to reduce the risks of poor mental health.