Physiological Influences of Music in Perception and Action

The review discusses the physiological influences of music during perception and action, including emotional reactions, music performance, and pain perception. It compares analytical approaches and highlights specific behavioral contexts where music impacts physiology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element reviews literature on the physiological influences of music during perception and action. It outlines how acoustic features of music influence physiological responses during passive listening, with an emphasis on comparisons of analytical approaches. It then considers specific behavioral contexts in which physiological responses to music impact perception and performance.

First, it describes physiological responses to music that evoke an emotional reaction in listeners. Second, it delineates how music influences physiology during music performance and exercise. Finally, it discusses the role of music perception in pain, focusing on medical procedures and laboratory-induced pain with infants and adults.

Acoustic features of music have been shown to influence physiological responses during passive listening. Studies have examined the effects of various musical parameters, such as pitch, tempo, and rhythm, on heart rate, blood pressure, and skin conductance. For example, research has found that listening to fast-paced music can increase heart rate and blood pressure, while listening to slow-paced music can decrease heart rate and blood pressure. Similarly, studies have shown that listening to music with a high pitch can increase skin conductance, which is a measure of emotional arousal.

Acoustic features of music can also influence physiological responses during music performance and exercise. For example, studies have shown that playing music can improve cognitive performance, such as memory and attention, and reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, music can increase muscle strength and endurance, and improve coordination and balance.

Physiological responses to music can also impact perception and performance. For example, studies have shown that listening to music while performing a task can improve performance by increasing motivation and concentration. Additionally, music can enhance the perception of spatial and temporal information, and improve the ability to perform complex tasks.

Music perception can also play a role in pain management. Studies have shown that listening to music can reduce pain and anxiety during medical procedures, such as childbirth and surgery. Additionally, music can be used to distract patients from pain and improve their overall well-being.

In conclusion, the acoustic features of music have a significant influence on physiological responses during perception and action. Acoustic features such as pitch, tempo, and rhythm can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and skin conductance, while playing music can improve cognitive performance, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase muscle strength and endurance. Additionally, music perception can play a role in pain management by reducing pain and anxiety during medical procedures and improving overall well-being. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying these effects and to develop effective music-based interventions for various clinical populations.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 151 x 227 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009044110
Edition number: New ed