MUSIC THERAPY INTERVENTION FOR THE MOTHER-PRETERM INFANT DYAD - MUSIP: PART 1

Abstract

This article presents the theoretical background that grounded the conceptualization and development of the protocol of the Music Therapy Intervention for the Mother-Preterm Infant Dyad – MUSIP, that was conceived for application in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). First, the context of prematurity and its repercussions for preterm infants and their families are described. Afterwards, the main early family-centered interventions carried out in the NICU are examined. Lastly, national and international studies about music therapy in the NICU are presented. In last decades, music therapy has shown to be a promising intervention for promoting preterm newborns’ development, maternal mental health and mother-infant interaction. In the following article (Part 2) MUSIP protocol will be detailed, as well as its application and adaptation for clinical practice.