Music therapy gained recognition during which major conflict?

Music therapy gained significant recognition during World War II as it was applied extensively to support the psychological and emotional well-being of soldiers returning from combat. The use of music was seen as a beneficial tool to help veterans cope with the trauma and stress associated with war. During this period, music therapists worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other therapeutic settings to assist soldiers with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and social reintegration. This era marked a pivotal moment for the establishment of music therapy as a formal discipline, leading to its integration into various therapeutic practices and the eventual formation of professional organizations to further the field.

While music therapy practices existed prior to World War II, they did not achieve the same level of recognition and organization until this conflict highlighted the therapeutic value of music in addressing the complex psychological needs of military personnel.