The effects of background music and music activities on group cohesiveness and behavior of fourteen troubled adolescents : an exploratory study

The purpose of this study is to analyze effects background Rock and Roll and Jazz music has with troubled adolescents in a junior high school setting. There is particular emphasis on the development of group cohesiveness, productive interpersonal interactions and enjoyable classroom experiences. Observational results show changes in behavior over a twelve week period. Pre-music behaviors are compared with post-music behaviors to show positive behavior changes. Incorporating music into the classroom can be simple and inexpensive. Consequently, if further research can show similar beneficial results, music may become a helpful aid in creating more productive and less resistant students. Results support further research into this subject. Limitations of this study include possible confounding variables, observer bias and subjective recording of data.