Effects of music therapy on spirituality with patients on a medical oncology/hematology unit: A mixed-methods approach

Despite considerable interest in the potential relationship between oncology and spirituality, it remains unclearhowthe spiritualwellbeingofpatients is best addressed inhealth care environments. Thepurpose of this studywas to determine the effect of threemusic therapy doses on spirituality in patients on amedical oncology/hematology unit (N=17). The researchersmeasured participants’ faith, peace, andmeaning by using the FACIT-Sp. tool (Brady, Peterman, Fitchett, Mo, & Cella, 1999) at preand posttest during a randomized controlled design. The researchers also incorporated interviews from patients concerning potential effects of music therapy and spirituality. Quantitative results indicated significant betweengroup differences in peace and faith subscales, with participants in the music therapy condition having higher posttest means than participants in the control condition. Qualitative data tended to support the importance of music therapy in meeting spiritual needs: Results of a thematic analysis indicated music therapy helped participants feel closer to God and elevated their moods. Consistent with the literature base, participants noted that that spiritual needs should indeed be addressed during a person’s time at the hospital. Limitations of the study, areas for future investigation, and implications for clinical practice