Drumming for 90 minutes per week helps adolescents with ASD to overcome hyperactivity and attention deficits. Learning drumming patterns also tunes brain connectivity in areas associated with inhibitory control and self-regulation
As part of the study, a group of participants with no drumming experience were given two 45-minute lessons each week across a two-month period. Each volunteer, aged between 16 and 20 years old, undertook a drumming assessment and MRI scan before and after the intervention, while their guardians were asked by the researchers about recent behavioral difficulties.
Results showed that participants who improved their drumming skills showed fewer signs of hyperactivity, inattention and repetitive behaviors and demonstrated better control of their emotions. MRI scans also revealed changes to their brain function which, according to the study, were linked to overall behavior.