Karaoke therapy in the rehabilitation of mental patients

To study the efficacy of karaoke singing and its implications in the rehabilitation of mental patients in Hong Kong Chinese.

A double blind controlled trial was conducted over six weeks in a small sample of chronic schizophrenic patients matched in age, sex and duration of illness. The index group practised karaoke and the controlled group practised simple singing. Subjects were assessed in changes in mood and social interaction.

No significant difference was detectable within the 2 groups. However, significant differences of anxiety and social interaction at the end of the third and sixth weeks respectively, were detectable between the 2 groups.

Karaoke therapy may be more effective than simple singing in improving social interaction. There is preliminary evidence that it may be anxiety-provoking for unstable schizophrenic patients. More research is required for further elucidation of the characteristics of favourable candidates, optimal schedule and active components of the therapy.