Music-based Mentoring Enhances Executive Function in Adolescents, Dissertation Shows

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Kaplan, R. (2023). Effects of community music on identity, social cohesion, and emotional well-being in immigrant and refugee youth (Publication No. 3251320813) [ Dissertation, Tulane University . ProQuest Dissertations Publishing. https://www.proquest.com/docview/3251320813 

Introduction

Kaplan (2023) explores how community music programs may support executive function and emotional well-being in immigrant and refugee youth. Grounded in evidence linking music training to cognitive development, she examines how collective music-making offers relational, identity-affirming experiences that indirectly foster attention, self-regulation, and social connection in adolescents affected by systemic adversity.

Methods

The author  examined underprivileged adolescents enrolled in a tuition-free, year-round community music-based mentoring program. Participants (ages 9–14) completed two sessions of cognitive and emotional assessments using PEBL and NIH Toolbox batteries. Tasks measured executive function domains such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, processing speed, and emotional well-being. Testing was conducted at enrollment and after six months.

Results

Results showed significant improvements in executive function on PEBL tasks, including memory span, reaction time, and cognitive flexibility, particularly for students with higher program attendance. NIH Toolbox cognitive measures showed no significant changes post-correction. However, emotional well-being improved: life satisfaction and friendship scores increased, suggesting positive psychosocial effects of music-based mentoring.

Discussion

The author found that participation in a music-based mentoring program improved processing speed, cognitive flexibility, and emotional well-being in adolescents from low-income communities. While gains were selective and may be influenced by developmental factors, the findings suggest music mentoring may serve as a protective factor supporting both cognitive and emotional development during early adolescence.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

Music-based mentoring programs may offer a dual pathway to support adolescents’ cognitive and emotional development. For youth in under-resourced communities, structured, relational music environments can strengthen executive function and emotional well-being. Mentoring programs should consider integrating sustained, skill-based group activities like music to promote engagement, self-regulation, and positive peer connections.

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