A meta-analysis on the effects of music as reinforcement for education/therapy objectives

The purpose of the study meta-analysis was to examine the effectiveness of music as a reward (or removal of music as a punishment) in education and therapy settings. Music initiation, participation, or interruption as a reward/punishment for behavior change is an established education/therapy technique. This study used meta-analytical techniques to evaluate 208 variables/outcomes derived from 98 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Findings show that music can serve as a strong motivator for behavioral improvements, and that the effect of music as a reward was diminished when other rewards (e.g., food, verbal approvals, visual stimuli) were offered.