# Effectiveness of Sound-Based Interventions for Improving Functional Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review of the Evidence

## TL;DR

This review examines if sound-based interventions help children with auditory hypersensitivity and emotional regulation, finding some early evidence but calling for better studies.

## Contribution

The paper provides a systematic review of sound-based interventions for children's auditory and behavioral outcomes.

## Key findings

- Preliminary evidence shows improvements in depression, anxiety, and behavioral outcomes like language and social behaviors.
- High heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes limits the clarity of the evidence.
- Eight eligible studies were identified from over 4700 titles, covering six different interventions.

## Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this review was to examine the evidence for sound-based interventions in decreasing auditory hypersensitivity and improving behavioural and emotional regulation among children.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted of primary research examining the use of sound-based interventions to reduce auditory hypersensitivity and regulate emotion or behaviour. Studies were eligible if they were published in English in a peer-reviewed journal, from January 2010 to March 2023. Studies of any design were included.

Results: A total of 4741 titles were identified in the search. Eight papers were eligible, covering six different sound-based interventions. Preliminary evidence highlights improvements in depression and anxiety symptomatology and improved behavioural outcomes including language, listening, and social behaviours. Heterogeneity was high across studies; they varied widely in sample size, population type, study design, and outcomes measured.

Conclusions: There is preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of sound-based interventions in improving auditory sensitivity and emotional and behavioural outcomes. However, there is a need for higher quality studies, including randomised controlled trials, and consistency in outcomes across studies to enable a clearer assessment of the evidence.