Feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a drum circle activity to improve affect in patients, families and staff of a pediatric hospital.

Background: Children, families and staff in pediatric hospitals often experience elevated psychological distress. Art-based initiatives, such as group drumming, have been proposed as strategies to support well-being in this context. Methods: This study evaluated the feasibility and potential benefits of a drum circle activity designed to improve the affective experience of patients, families and staff in a large pediatric hospital. A total of 48 patients, 16 employees and 15 visitors completed questionnaires before and after up to 12 joint drum circle sessions. A total of 12 respondents took part in semi-structured interviews. Results: Quantitative analyses showed significant pre-post-session increases in positive affect (beta = .48; p < .001) and decreases in negative affect (beta = -.29; p < .001). Qualitative results corroborated these findings, in addition to suggesting the safety of the activity as well as other potential benefits. Conclusions: This preliminary study supports the usefulness of group drumming to enhance the well-being of pediatric hospital patients, families and staff.