Title

A humanistic understanding of the use of digital technology in therapeutic songwriting

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Spring 7-4-2018

Journal / Book Title

Music Therapy Perspectives

Abstract

This article explores the use of technology in therapeutic songwriting from a humanistic perspective focusing on the tenets of cultivating agency, expressing and voicing selfhood, and nurturing stakeholder engagement. Adolescents in the 21st century are using a variety of digital music platforms to (re)create their identities and invent new ways of transforming social discourse. By attuning to the humanistic qualities of digital technology used in therapeutic songwriting, music therapists can provide a space for adolescents who have experienced trauma to discover their potentiality. Songs will be shared for readers to experience how various recording and production techniques can reveal the lived experiences of songwriters within music therapy, as well as to highlight the humanistic tenets of agency, expressing and voicing selfhood, and stakeholder engagement. The need for cultural and ethical responsiveness when creating digital soundscapes with adolescents who have experienced childhood trauma and identify with Hip Hop Culture is discussed.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1093/mtp/miy014

Published Citation

Viega, M. (2018). A humanistic understanding of the use of digital technology in therapeutic songwriting. Music Therapy Perspectives. https://doi.org/10.1093/mtp/miy014

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