Music therapy in oncology: perceptions of children and adolescents in palliative care

Abstract

Objective

to analyze the perceptions of children and adolescents with cancer in palliative care about music therapy.

Method

field research with a qualitative approach, conducted with seven children and adolescents. The drawing-story technique was initially carried out based on drawings on feelings about hospitalization and the drawing story. Then there was the musical interaction, drawing on the meaning of music in the face of the hospitalization process, and the story of the drawing. For analysis, the content analysis technique was used.

Results

before music therapy, the children and adolescents expressed feelings of sadness, fear and longing related to the breaking of the family bond during the hospitalization process. After receiving music therapy, they expressed feelings of pleasure and well-being that this experience can provide them, allowing them to express their deepest feelings.

Conclusion

music therapy can benefit children and adolescents with cancer as it allows for the expression of feelings, enables the rescue of memories and provides hope in the face of the situation experienced, in addition to pain relief.

Implications for the practice

music therapy contributes to the palliative process and can offer better quality of life to children and adolescents with cancer.

Keywords:
Music Therapy; Palliative Care; Cancer; Child; Adolescent