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A taxonomic framework of music-based intervention components to guide research: recommendations from the NIH U24
Sheri L Robb1,2, Elizabeth Harman1, Debra S Burns3
1School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States.
Background:
As research on music and health expands across disciplines, inconsistent terminology limits communication, replication, and mechanistic discovery. The absence of a shared lexicon obscures comparisons across studies and hinders identification of the specific music-based intervention (MBI) components and mechanistic pathways responsible for change in health-related outcomes.
Objective:
To address this gap, a multidisciplinary working group representing four U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) U24 Music Research Networks developed and validated the Music-Based Intervention (MBI) Taxonomy.
Methods:
Using an iterative, expert consensus process, the working group developed an initial framework of MBI components, terms, and definitions. The draft taxonomy was subsequently validated, interrogated, and refined through a two-part systematic review of 200 studies, including 100 clinical MBI and 100 laboratory-based music studies, using a phased, iterative, consensus-based process.
Results:
The resulting taxonomy provides a hierarchical framework comprising seven core constructs of MBIs: Music Features; Person-Specific Music Factors; Engagement Mode; Music Delivery Factors; Social and Environmental Contexts; Music Selection; and Additional Non-Music Components. Across these constructs the taxonomy specifies components, subcomponents, recommended terminology, and definitions to support the conceptualization and description of mechanistic music research.
Conclusion:
The MBI Taxonomy aims to improve the consistency and transparency of MBI components, support mechanistic study conceptualization and design, and facilitate replication and cross-study synthesis. As a comprehensive meta-framework, it serves as a foundational tool to help overcome disciplinary silos and foster a more cohesive, rigorous body of mechanistic music research.
