Music training for children's brain development
Effects of Music Training on Neurodevelopment and Associated Health Outcomes
This study is testing whether music training can help improve brain development in children aged 6-8 from underserved communities in Los Angeles.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 114 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 8 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05502939 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of music training on brain development in children aged 6-8 from underserved communities in Los Angeles. A total of 114 Hispanic children will be randomly assigned to either a music training group focused on a traditional strings curriculum or a control group participating in various non-music related activities. The study will utilize a randomized control trial design, collecting imaging and behavioral data before, during, and after the 24-month intervention to assess changes in brain inhibition control circuitry. The findings aim to provide insights into the potential benefits of music training on cognitive development.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Hispanic children aged 6-8 from low socioeconomic backgrounds living within 2 miles of the study location.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological or psychiatric disorders, prior extensive music training, or severe sensory impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could demonstrate that music training enhances brain development and cognitive function in children.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results regarding the cognitive benefits of music training, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * normal IQ (standard score of \>85 in the Abbreviated Wechsler's Scale of Intelligence) * Hispanic/Latino living in LA within 2 miles radius of the location of the music and the afterschool programs * low SES as defined by Hollingshead Index cumulative score below 29 * ages 6-8 Exclusion Criteria: * current diagnosis of neurological or psychiatric disorders * prior engagement in formal and systematic music training for more than 6 months * previous or current diagnosis of severe hearing loss defined as air conduction thresholds greater than 60 dB HL through 8 kHz or- severe vision loss that is not correctable with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses * non-removable, non-MRI compatible body parts * Claustrophobia
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- Brain and Creativity Institute — Los Angeles, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Assal Habibi — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Assal Habibi
- Email: ahabibi@usc.edu
- Phone: 213 740 3588
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.