Perceptions of and Opportunities for AMTA Journals: A Mixed Methods Study

The Journal of Music Therapy and Music Therapy Perspectives are journals sponsored by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). In recent years, the journal leadership teams have been focused on issues of inclusion, access, equity, and social justice, as they relate to the journals. This focus aligned with AMTA's reorganization process that began in the early 2020s, where principles of social justice were centered as part of the association's statements related to organizational change. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to gather data related to readers' use and perceptions of the journals, including perceptions regarding the integration of diversity and social justice. Board-certified music therapists (N = 409) met inclusion criteria and completed an online survey; these data were used to inform focus group questions. We then conducted five focus groups (N = 16 participants) to gather more personal and in-depth responses. Survey data indicated varying opinions related to the use of the journals and inclusion of social justice principles, whereas the focus groups were more unified in their assessment that more work is needed in this area. Participants in the focus groups brought forward issues related to inclusion and access. The readership indicated that the journals currently incorporate some aspects of these principles; however, many readers would like to see more intentional integration of these principles across the journals. Focus group members also provided a variety of action steps for consideration as the journals move forward.