The Effect of Music Assisted Relaxation on Mood Perception in Vietnam Veterans: A Pilot Study

• Other Authors: Garrison, Diane E. (Diane Elizabeth) (authoraut)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Music
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/FSU_FA2016_Garrison_fsu_0071N_13502

The Vietnam War is considered to be one of the longest and most controversial conflicts that the United States has ever been engaged in. Veterans from this war experienced a homecoming that was unlike the fanfare awarded to previous military personnel; instead they faced physical ailments, psychological problems, and a lack of support. This war not only impacted the men and women who served in the military, but also their families and communities, resulting in the need for effective and targeted treatment strategies. The purpose of this study was to determine if music-assisted relaxation was effective in altering Vietnam Veterans’ perceptions of relaxation and if this was reflected in the self-assessments and physiological data. Participants were (N = 10) Vietnam Veterans from a local Vietnam Veterans of America Organization, who participated in a music-assisted relaxation intervention facilitated by a board-certified music therapist. Respiratory rate was measured before the intervention began and one minute prior to the end of the session. Participants also completed a posttest questionnaire regarding their perceptions of music and the music therapy experience. Results were not significant, but all participants indicated that they would be willing to participate in the music-assisted relaxation and/or a similar music therapy intervention again. === A Thesis submitted to the College of Music in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Music. === Fall Semester 2016. === November 10, 2016. === Music-Assisted Relaxation, Music Therapy, Vietnam Veterans === Includes bibliographical references. === Lori F. Gooding, Professor Directing Thesis; Jayne M. Standley, Committee Member; John M. Geringer, Committee Member.