Theory of Music: Practical Applications to Nursing

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Recommended: Effects of music intellectually, emotionally, physically

Music has been used to aid in the healing process since Florence Nightingale first noticed its effect on her patients (Murrock & Higgins, 2009). Since then we have moved forward with the notion that music can be encouraging both for recovery and for treatment (Murrock & Higgins, 2009). There is evidence that music can promote psychological well-being and encourage movement (Dwyer, 1995; Macone, Baldari, Zelli & Guidetti, 2006). Music can also be used as a therapeutic route for expression, movement, and conceptualization (O’Callaghan, Barry, & Thompson, 2010). The aging population seems to benefit from music making as well, both in regards to those with dementia and those without dementia (Cevasco, 2010; Creech, Hallam, Varvarigou, McQueen & Gaunt, 2013). Music can also be self-administered, which allows it to be one of the more safe prescriptions for healing (Murrock & Higgins, 2009). Therefore we understand that music is one of the most useful therapies we have access to, and should not be afraid to use it in a broader setting as nurses.
Basic Music Theory
Murrock and Higgins (2009) developed a concept based on the neurological responses to music and their possible correlation to positive reinforcement when combined with the daily recommendations on exercise from the national guidelines. They wanted to encourage health optimization through physical exercise, positive neurologic responses to music, and behavioral development of routine exercise. Murrock and Higgins’ theory represents a coalescing of ideas that have been present for many years, such as the positive effect of music on patients first noted by Florence Nightingale. They believe that music could lead to positive health outcomes through enhancing patient’s mood. They...

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...exercise intrinsic motivation. Health Values: The Journal of Health Behavior, Education & Promotion, 19(2), 18-26.
Murrock, C., & Higgins, P. (2009). The theory of music, mood and movement to improve health outcomes. Journal Of Advanced Nursing, 65(10), 2249-2257. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2648.2009.05108.x.
Macone, D., Baldari, C., Zelli, A., & Guidetti, L. (2006). Music and physical activity in psychological well-being. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 103(1), 285- 295.
O'callaghan, C., Barry, P., & Thompson, K. (2012). Music's relevance for adolescents and young adults with cancer: A constructivist research approach. Supportive Care in Cancer, 20(4), 687-97.
Plante, T. G., Gustafson, C., Brecht, C., Imberi, J., & Sanchez, J. (2011). Exercising with an iPod, friend, or neither: Which is better for psychological benefits?. American Journal of Health Behavior, 35(2), 199-208.

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