Anti-Oppressive Music Therapy: Updates and Future Considerations

Anti-Oppressive Music Therapy: Updates and Future Considerations

ABSTRACT: From the article:

Research shows that systemic oppression negatively affects health outcomes for marginalized people (Baines, 2016; Williams & Cooper, 2020). Much of music therapy research, pedagogy, and practice has covertly and overtly participated in systemic oppression through embracing Eurocentric traditions that promote white supremacy. Anti-oppressive music therapy (AOMT) is a general theory that offers pathways forward in music therapy to dismantle systemic oppression and celebrate diversity and equity. AOMT is a way of working that requires deep critical reflection to recognize and acknowledge unearned privilege and commitment to address personal resistance to change. AOMT links critical music therapy theories to increase ethical practice and social justice in music therapy theory, education, research, and practice.

AUTHOR SUMMARY: Sue Baines

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