Date of Award

1-4-2026

Thesis Type

Masters

Document Type

Dissertation

Divisions

Faculty of Creative Arts

Institution

Universiti Malaya

Abstract

Depression is a common and serious mental health issue that significantly impacts an individual's quality of life and daily functioning. Music therapy, as a low-risk, non-pharmacological intervention, can regulate emotions and psychological states. This study is based on the Chinese Five-Elements theory, exploring the core concepts of Five-Elements music therapy, the challenges faced by music therapists in clinical applications, and its future development potential. This study recruited practitioners who hold registered music therapist qualifications, are familiar with the Five Elements music therapy, and have experience in treating depression and related comorbidities (such as anxiety and insomnia) as participants through purposive sampling. A total of seven music therapists were selected for semi-structured interviews. The results showed that therapists recognized the cultural value and potential efficacy of the therapy, but faced multiple challenges in clinical practice, including inconsistent operational procedures, low patient compliance and participation, and difficulties in individualized application. They also emphasized the need for enhanced training and standardized procedures. Future research could further explore standardized operational procedures for this therapy, personalized applications for different patient groups, and scientific validation of its efficacy to promote its widespread clinical application and sustained development.

Initial

khm

Additional Information

Research Report (M.A.) – Faculty of Creative Arts, Universiti Malaya 2025.

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