An Exploration of the Relationship Between Music Therapy and the Forensic Environment

Catherine Roberts, 2001

Abstract

This thesis is an exploration of the relationship between Music Therapy and the forensic environment. It attempts to do this by collating existing material on the use of Music Therapy in this field and together with other relevant material from the Arts Therapies to draw some conclusions about the principal dynamics a therapist will face in this setting. It also considers how the contribution of psychoanalytic theory to understanding mental illness and violent behaviour can assist in understanding the role and dynamics that exist for the Music Therapist in a forensic environment. Through the use of case examples drawn from the writer's own personal experience of working as a Music Therapist in a secure unit, the issues surrounding Music Therapy within this setting and the theories presented are illustrated.

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