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Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications

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A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Mental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2022) | Viewed by 65852

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Dr. Osmano Oasi

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Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, 20123 Milano, Italy
Interests: psychodynamic psychopathology; assessment; music therapy; psychotic onset
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Dr. Barbara Colombo

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Guest Editor

Behavioral Neuroscience Lab, Champlain College, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
Interests: neuroscience; aging; cognitive reserve; emotions; music
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Dear Colleagues,

Music is a central element in human experience. It resonates differently in every person. People use music in everyday life, and, in each situation, it plays an essential role. Furthermore, music is a universal aspect of all human cultures. Indeed, social, psychological, and cultural events are often accompanied by music, and music modulates the emotional response to them. In the past decade, research into the study of the psychological aspects of the use of music and music preferences showed a substantial growth. Following this trend, this Special Issue will welcome papers that focus on the relationship between psychological features and the use of music. This call also addresses both music listening and music therapy. This second focus derives from the evidence that music listening can be seen as a central part of self-administered music therapy (active or rehabilitative) and can also be used by music therapists within different settings to inform and shape their work. The literature shows that music produces positive effects in either scenario. Original research, reviews, and case reports addressing these topics are invited to this Special Issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH).

Dr. Osmano Oasi
Dr. Barbara Colombo
Guest Editors

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Keywords

psychological features
personality traits
music
well-being
music therapy

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New Edition of Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (1 article)

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11 pages, 1255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Binaural Beat Audio on Operative Pain and Anxiety in Cataract Surgery under Topical Anaesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Ling Jiunn Loong, Koh Koon Ling, Evelyn Li Min Tai, Yee Cheng Kueh, Garry Kuan and Adil Hussein

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10194; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610194 - 17 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3258

Abstract

Background: The aim of this paper was to examine the analgesic and anxiolytic effects of binaural beat audio in patients undergoing cataract surgery under topical anaesthesia. Methods: This was a prospective, randomized controlled trial of 61 patients undergoing cataract surgery under topical anaesthesia. They were divided into two research conditions; the binaural beat audio group, and a sham-control group (ear phones with no music). Patients completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire (STAI), and their blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were measured pre- and post-intervention. Intraoperative pain levels were ascertained using a visual analog scale (VAS) completed immediately after the surgery. Results: The binaural beat group had significantly lower pain scores (p < 0.001), HR (p < 0.001), diastolic BP (p = 0.003), mean arterial pressure (p = 0.007) and anxiety (p = 0.009) than the control group. Within the binaural beat group, subjects experienced a statistically significant reduction in HR (p = 0.004) and anxiety (p < 0.001) levels compared to baseline values, while all parameters, except anxiety, increased significantly in the control group. Conclusions: Binaural beat audio decreases operative pain and anxiety in cataract surgery under topical anaesthesia. It may have additional benefits in modulating the tachycardic response to stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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14 pages, 638 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Why Music Therapists Choose to Work with a Clinical Population: An International Pilot Survey

by Avi Gilboa, Chava Wiess, Ayelet Dassa, Melissa-Mercadal Brotons, Eva Frank-Bleckwedel, Elisabeth Kaczynski, Jiri Kantor, Beate Roelcke and Patricia Sabbatella

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9463; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159463 - 2 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1786

Abstract

(1) Background: Throughout their career, music therapists make decisions regarding the clinical population they choose to work with. Though such decisions can have broad implications on the professional development of the music therapist, not much is known about the reasons for making these decisions and whether they are affected by demographic or professional factors. (2) Methods: In this pilot study, we surveyed 439 music therapists from six countries (i.e., Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Israel, Spain, and Switzerland) using an online questionnaire. We asked the respondents to explain why they chose to work with their main clienteles, and we examined whether their reasons were connected to demographic factors such as country of origin, gender, and seniority, and professional factors such as experience as a music therapist and population one works with. (3) Results: The category analysis of these responses pointed at nine distinct reasons that could be grouped into “practical reasons”, “reasons of connection”, and “innovation”. There were differences in reasoning between music therapists from different countries, and with different degrees of seniority, but not between male and female music therapists. (4) Discussion: The implications on training programs and on policy makers are discussed as well as the importance of this subject to the development of music therapists’ professional identity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

13 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The “Ensemble”—A Group Music Therapy Treatment for Developing Preschool Children’s Social Skills

by Raya Blanky-Voronov and Avi Gilboa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9446; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159446 - 2 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2931

Abstract

(1) Background: Several music therapy treatments have been developed to assist children with social skill deficiencies. They lack reference to emotions and their connection to social skills and they don’t deal with group dynamics and its impact on the group. We conducted a preliminary examination of the “Ensemble” treatment, which was developed to improve the social skills of children of various client populations, with the social deficiency originating from different sources; (2) Methods: 24 children in four groups went through the year-long “Ensemble” treatment. Observations of the sessions were analyzed quantitatively counting the occurrence of twelve typical socially oriented behaviors. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 24 mothers and 23 kindergarten teachers (KTs) before and after the process; (3) Results: Quantitative results show that children in all four “Ensemble” groups, improved in nine out of twelve social skills. Qualitative results show that the improvement was evident also in the home environment (as reported by mothers) and in the kindergarten environment (as reported by KTs); (4) Conclusions: A comparison between the “Ensemble” and previous music therapy treatments indicates this treatment’s potential to help children with a wide variety of social skill deficiencies. Further investigation based on more rigorous research designs is recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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13 pages, 1193 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of a Dance and Music-Based Intervention on Parkinson’s Patients’ Well-Being: An Interview Study

by Barbara Colombo, Alison Rigby, Martina Gnerre and Federica Biassoni

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7519; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127519 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3423

Abstract

Previous research has shown the positive effects of music and dance-based interventions on the physical and psychosocial symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The aims of this study were: (1) to investigate how PD patients subjectively perceive the emotional, cognitive, and social benefits of a music- and dance-based intervention; (2) to apply an innovative methodology for an interview analysis combining findings from a linguistic text with an analytic approach and conducted with the software LIWC and from the content analysis performed by human coders. Extensive, open-ended interviews were conducted with 13 patients with PD who had participated in a dance and music program. The interviews were analyzed using both human coders and the computer-based approach. The results show that emotional and social aspects are considered the most frequent perceived benefits of the dance program. The data confirm the positive impact of dance- and music-based programs on promoting participants’ emotional and social well-being. A combined approach to text analysis appears to be a promising way to achieve more in-depth insights into patients’ subjective perceptions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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23 pages, 2682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Association between Musical Sophistication and Well-Being in Music Students

by Michel A. Cara, Constanza Lobos, Mario Varas and Oscar Torres

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 3867; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19073867 - 24 Mar 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3019

Abstract

Quality of life and mental health are topics under discussion in the university environment that pose new educational challenges. Public policy in Chile establishes the need to track students who are starting university and who could find themselves at possible academic risk (Law 20. 903). These transition processes experienced by students therefore need to be guided to improve the students’ quality of life. Using a mixed design, the present study analyzes the association between musical sophistication (Ollen, 2006), students’ well-being, and the performance of first-year students training to be music teachers (n = 25). The Ollen Musical Sophistication questionnaire and the Spanish version of the PERMA-profiler, a questionnaire for assessing well-being, were applied. In order to obtain detailed information about learning processes and educational needs, seven interviews were conducted. Results indicate a negative correlation between musical sophistication on the one hand and negative emotions (anxiety and anger) and loneliness on the other. This is reflected in less consistent academic performance, difficulties in identity development, and reduced motivation to face new challenges besides musical learning. We concluded that knowledge and observation of students’ previous musical experience is crucial for understanding and supporting the educational transition process and well-being of student music teachers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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10 pages, 943 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Who Tends to Appreciate Atonal Music? Higher Perceived Personal Control Leads to an Increased Inclination to Prefer Atonal Music

by Junfeng Liu, Shen-Long Yang and Feng Yu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3248; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063248 - 10 Mar 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2214

Abstract

Research on the aesthetic experience of music has largely focused on tonal music, while relatively less is known about individuals’ differences in the aesthetic experience of atonal music. According to the compensatory control theory, we hypothesized that perceived personal control significantly and positively predicted individuals’ tendency to prefer atonal music, while the need for structure played a mediating role. The present research investigated who tends to prefer atonal music, and why. A sample of college students listened to atonal music and completed questionnaires on perceived personal control, the need for structure, and their aesthetic judgment of the music. Our analysis showed that individuals with higher perceived personal control exhibited a stronger tendency to prefer atonal music, compared with those who had lower perceived control; moreover, the need for structure played a mediating role between perceived control and aesthetic experience of atonal music. These results revealed which audience was suitable for atonal music and extended the explanatory scope of the compensatory control theory. The theoretical and practical implications and limitations of these findings are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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17 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Study on the Acoustic Musical Properties to Decrease Self-Perceived Anxiety

by Emilia Parada-Cabaleiro, Anton Batliner and Markus Schedl

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19020994 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3300

Abstract

Musical listening is broadly used as an inexpensive and safe method to reduce self-perceived anxiety. This strategy is based on the emotivist assumption claiming that emotions are not only recognised in music but induced by it. Yet, the acoustic properties of musical work capable of reducing anxiety are still under-researched. To fill this gap, we explore whether the acoustic parameters relevant in music emotion recognition are also suitable to identify music with relaxing properties. As an anxiety indicator, the positive statements from the six-item Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, a self-reported score from 3 to 12, are taken. A user-study with 50 participants assessing the relaxing potential of four musical pieces was conducted; subsequently, the acoustic parameters were evaluated. Our study shows that when using classical Western music to reduce self-perceived anxiety, tonal music should be considered. In addition, it also indicates that harmonicity is a suitable indicator of relaxing music, while the role of scoring and dynamics in reducing non-pathological listener distress should be further investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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18 pages, 922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Breaking the Mould: A Theory Explaining How Young Adults Living with WS Learn Life Skills through Music

by Ewie Erasmus

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010049 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2701

Abstract

This article presents a theory explaining how young adults living with Williams syndrome (WS) learn life skills through music. The article answers the question: What theory explains how young adults living with WS learn life skills through music? The theory presented in this article is informed by principles of care ethics and compassionate music education and theories of wellbeing and flourishing. The theory is further informed by empirical data, including data collected during semi-structured interviews, casual conversations, observations, field notes, and social media and blog posts collected at Berkshire Hills Music Academy, Massachusetts, USA, over six weeks. Thematic analysis was the data analysis strategy. The theoretical proposition represented by the findings is: (i) If young adults living with WS have the opportunity to learn through engagement in music activities within a safe environment in which they are engaged, supported, appreciated, motivated, feel that they belong and feel that they are competent, and (ii) if educators are willing to focus on the abilities of these young adults by putting their needs first, (iii) then young adults living with WS should be able to overcome various challenges and ultimately develop the life skills they need to live well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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13 pages, 1911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emotion Modulation through Music after Sadness Induction—The Iso Principle in a Controlled Experimental Study

by Katrin Starcke, Johanna Mayr and Richard von Georgi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(23), 12486; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312486 - 26 Nov 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 15687

Abstract

Music therapy intervention manuals suggest that individuals who suffer from affective disorders benefit from listening to music according to the iso principle. The iso principle comprises listening to music that matches the current mood of patients at first, and then to gradually shift to music that represents a desired mood. Within the current study, we investigate whether the sequence of music with different emotional valence can modulate the emotional state. All participants were healthy adults who underwent a sadness induction via a movie clip. They were subsequently divided into four experimental groups. Each was asked to listen to two pieces of music according to a specific sequence: sad-sad; sad-happy; happy-happy; happy-sad. Participants were prompt to rate their current emotional state at different stages of the experiment: prior to and after the movie clip, as well as after each of the two pieces of music. The frame used for the assessment was the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and the Self-Assessment Manikin. The results indicate that the movie clip induced sadness. The group of participants who listened to the sad music first and the happy music afterwards ultimately reported a higher positive affect, a higher emotional valence, and a lower negative affect compared with the other groups. However, not all the between-group differences reached significance. We conclude that the sequence of music with different emotional valence affects the current emotional state. The results are generally in line with the iso principle. Directions for future research are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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19 pages, 1367 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

A Neurobiological Framework for the Therapeutic Potential of Music and Sound Interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms in Critical Illness Survivors

by Usha Pant, Michael Frishkopf, Tanya Park, Colleen M. Norris and Elizabeth Papathanassoglou

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 3113; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19053113 - 6 Mar 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 11049

Abstract

Overview: Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has emerged as a severely debilitating psychiatric disorder associated with critical illness. Little progress has been made in the treatment of post-intensive care unit (ICU) PTSD. Aim: To synthesize neurobiological evidence on the pathophysiology of PTSD and the brain areas involved, and to highlight the potential of music to treat post-ICU PTSD. Methods: Critical narrative review to elucidate an evidence-based neurobiological framework to inform the study of music interventions for PTSD post-ICU. Literature searches were performed in PubMed and CINAHL. The Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) guided reporting. Results: A dysfunctional HPA axis feedback loop, an increased amygdalic response, hippocampal atrophy, and a hypoactive prefrontal cortex contribute to PTSD symptoms. Playing or listening to music can stimulate neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, enhance brain recovery, and normalize stress response. Additionally, evidence supports effectiveness of music to improve coping and emotional regulation, decrease dissociation symptoms, reduce depression and anxiety levels, and overall reduce severity of PTSD symptoms. Conclusions: Despite the lack of music interventions for ICU survivors, music has the potential to help people suffering from PTSD by decreasing amygdala activity, improving hippocampal and prefrontal brain function, and balancing the HPA-axis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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16 pages, 963 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Music Therapy and Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review from 2015–2020

by Manuel Joaquín Machado Sotomayor, Víctor Arufe-Giráldez, Gerardo Ruíz-Rico and Rubén Navarro-Patón

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11618; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111618 - 4 Nov 2021

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 14846

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease can be approached from various points of view, one of which is music therapy—a complementary therapy to a pharmacological one. This work aims to compile the scientific evidence published in the last five years (2015–2020) on the effects of music therapy in patients with Parkinson’s disease. A systematic review has been performed using the Web of Science and Scopus databases with the descriptors “music therapy” and “Parkinson’s disease”. A total of 281 eligible articles were identified, which, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were reduced to 58 papers. The results display a great diversity of evidence, confirming positive effects on various spheres. All mentioned patients with Parkinson’s disease had experienced different music therapy programs. Some studies focused on the motor component, which can be addressed through listening, body rhythm, and rhythmic auditory stimulation. Other studies confirm effects on communication, swallowing, breathing, and the emotional aspect through programs that focus on singing, either individually or in groups, in order to improve the quality of life of people with PD. It was concluded that music therapy programs can achieve improvements in various areas of patients with Parkinson’s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Features, Music, and Well-Being: Theories and Applications)

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