音樂治療對毒品受刑人幸福感之初探

A preliminary study on the effects of music therapy on the well-being of drug inmates

Substance abuse is a major social problem in Taiwan, with drug offenders accounting for about half of the inmate population in correctional institutions. This highlights the importance of drug treatment. The goal of this study is to explore the impact of music therapy on the well-being of drug offenders, with the aim of preventing relapse. Music therapy aids in the integration of an individual’s mind and can be used clinically as an adjunct therapy. Music is an effective means of emotional expression, and literature indicates that the ability of drug addicts to resist drug-induced cravings is related to their well-being. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how music therapy influences the well-being of drug offenders. This experimental study was conducted at a correctional facility in northern Taiwan, using a random sampling method to select 62 drug offenders. They were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group, with 31 participants in each group. The experimental group received a 10-week music therapy program, while the control group received the standard prison treatment program. The research tools included a well-being scale and a depression assessment scale. The results of the paired sample t-test analysis showed that the music therapy group demonstrated significant improvement in emotional experiences during the course, compared to the control group. Additionally, the music therapy group showed enhanced psychological conditions and maintained physical comfort. The study concludes that music therapy can regulate the emotions of drug offenders, enhance their wellbeing, and reduce depressive symptoms, having a positive effect on coping with challenges induced by drug use. However, the research is influenced by various confounding factors, including brain damage from drug use, repeated incarceration and rehabilitation experiences, differences in courses available in the prison environment, and the participation of the control group in other educational programs. While the short-term effects of music therapy are significant, its long-term effects require further investigation. Music therapy is a viable option for short-term, voluntary participation to improve emotions and enhance well-being. It is recommended that correctional institutions consider incorporating music therapy as a treatment option to improve the positive emotions of drug offenders.