| Although Internet survey research in music therapy has been slowly increasing, surveys regarding music therapy with pediatric patients are nonexistent. The purpose of this study was to examine the demographics, clinical and educational background, music therapy practices, and working conditions of music therapists working with children in hospital settings. A 53-question survey was designed and administered through electronic mail to professional music therapists (MTs) who were members of the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and indicated they worked in a pediatric hospital or unit, as well as participants who were located via word of mouth (N = 200). The response rate was 36%, as 72 responses met criteria for inclusion and were analyzed. Participants represented pediatric hospitals (69%) and general hospitals with pediatric units (31%). Respondents were women (96%), aged 25--34 years old (67%), board certified (MT-BC; 100%), and held the job title "Music Therapist" (85%). Respondents indicated the average number of years worked in their current hospital was 4.68 years and overall MTs was 8.7 years. On average, more than 1 music therapist was employed in each hospital setting. More than half (54%) of music therapists working in pediatrics held a Master's degree. Suggestions for experience and work settings for future music therapists are presented. Descriptive results regarding music therapy practices and working conditions were also identified. Limitations of the study and implications for future research are presented. |
