The effects of group singing on the wellbeing and psychosocial outcomes of children and young people: a systematic integrative review

Supporting the wellbeing of young people is a growing issue internationally. Reviews of adult studies suggest the potential of group singing to meet this agenda. This review aimed to examine current evidence regarding the effects of group singing on the wellbeing and psychosocial outcomes of children and young people. A systematic integrative review of electronic databases, including primary research studies which examined wellbeing or psychosocial outcomes for children and young people involved in group singing, yielded thirteen studies. Conclusions about the effectiveness of group singing could not be drawn from quantitative studies, which were of low quality. Qualitative synthesis indicates group singing may support young people's wellbeing through mechanisms of 'social connectedness' and confidence. Current conclusions are limited and additional, high quality qualitative and quantitative research is required to build on these findings. Further careful study may support the development and funding of group singing projects.