Vol. 5 No. 3 (2026): May-June
3-9
2026-06-29
Open Access

Music and Neurodivergent Children: What Does the Research Show?

Laziza Azimova
https://doi.org/10.56121/MSU-2026-3-00013

Received: 2026-03-25

Published: 2026-06-29

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Abstract

This narrative review examines research on music and neurodivergent children, with particular attention to autism and ADHD. It brings together findings from clinical studies, neuroscience, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses to examine whether music may support communication, social interaction, emotional expression, and participation. The evidence suggests possible benefits for some autistic children, but findings vary depending on the children studied, the type of musical activity, and the outcomes researchers measure. Research on ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence remains much more limited. Findings from autism research therefore cannot automatically be applied to all neurodivergent children. Rather than asking simply whether music “works,” this review suggests asking what kinds of music may help which children, and with what. Music may offer some children another way to communicate, express themselves, participate, and connect with others.

Keywords

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About the Authors

Laziza Azimova
laziazimova@gmail.com
Tashkent Presidential School

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1.
Music and Neurodivergent Children: What Does the Research Show?. MSU [Internet]. 2026 Jun. 29 [cited 2026 Sep. 6];5(3):3-9. Available from: https://fdoctors.uz/index.php/journal/article/view/282
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