How can music help autistic young people experience flow?
Music has the power to absorb us completely, creating moments of focus, enjoyment and connection. But what does that experience look like for autistic young people, and could it change the way we think about musical behaviours that are often misunderstood?
In this episode, Natalie Cairns-Ratter, a doctoral researcher at the University of Roehampton, shares her research into how autistic and non-autistic young people experience flow through music. Combining surveys with video observations, she investigates how repetitive musical behaviours can represent meaningful engagement rather than something that should be discouraged.
Natalie reflects on how her own experiences inspired the project and explains why neuro-affirming approaches are so vital. We also explore how her findings can help educators, parents and carers create more inclusive musical environments where young people can flourish.
You can read a transcript of the conversation here.
Find out more about South and East Network for Social Sciences at www.senss.ac.uk
This is a Research Podcasts production.
Episode Credits:
Presenter and Producer: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts
Guest: Natalie Cairns-Ratter, University of Roehampton
Music: \"Surroundings are Green\" by Ketsa
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