(Dys)Functional behavior in forensic psychiatric patients: Study of analogy between music therapy and group work

Music therapy literature often assumes that reactions of clients demonstrated during music therapy show similarities with other situations. This theory is described as the theory of analogy. This study aims to explore these similarities in the context of forensic psychiatry. Forensic psychiatric patients are observed by sociotherapists for specific behavior at the living unit. These results are compared with the observations of behavior during music therapy. Twenty participants are included in the study. Scores of different observation scales are compared. With regard to verbal and dysfunctional behavior, as well as non-observed behavior, significant similarities exist. Coping, interaction and assaultive behavior showed no significant similarities. The results suggest that the theory of analogy should be applied with caution.

► Theory of analogy is researched with empirical data. ► Reactions on stressful situations in music therapy and sociotherapy are compared. ► Coping, interaction and assaultive behavior show no significant similarities. ► Verbal reactions and overall dysfunctional behavior show significant similarities. ► Results suggest that the theory of analogy should be used more cautiously.