Why Music Causes Different Emotions

Few can deny the effects that music has on the emotions. Music and song become an integral part of our lives from the moment we're born. In the past 50 years, researchers have identified the physical effects of music on the mind and body. Read on to learn how music affects our emotions and how it's used in treatment therapies.

Identification

• Though the mechanism by which it works is not completely understood, scientists have identified definite correlations between music and the way the brain processes information. Studies conducted by the University of California have shown how music's effect on the right hemisphere of the brain improves spatial reasoning processes within the left hemisphere. The students observed showed improvement in their ability to learn math and science when music was applied in the background.

Theories/Speculation

• A phenomena known as the "Mozart effect" was proposed by a French researcher named Alfred Tomatis in 1991. His book, "Why Mozart?" described how listening to classical music improves the brain's ability to reason and learn. This effect was said to be only temporary, though particularly effective when performing mental tasks that required spatial reasoning. While considered a controversial theory at the time, a second book written in 1997 by Don Campbell, entitled "The Mozart Effect: Tapping the Power of Music to Heal the Body, Strengthen the Mind and Unlock the Creative Spirit," served to further validate the theory. Campbell described music as a transformational force, able to enhance intelligence and learning, as well as aid in the treatment of a variety of emotional, physical and learning disorders. However, many of Campbell's theories have not been validated by other research, and the book has been mostly discredited by scientists.

Function

• A common example of how music effects our emotions can be seen whenever we go to the movies. Movie directors take great pains in selecting music that will best enhance our cinematic experience. Sad movies will typically carry a slow, dramatic type music score, whereas comedies or adventures will play upbeat melodies and rhythms. In doing this, the emotional experience of the movie is greatly enhanced, and it allows us to "escape" into the story being played out on the screen. Without music, the overall emotional impact of a good movie would be lost.

Benefits

• A number of studies point to the healing ability that music can provide for people with head injuries, dementia and even cancer. One particular experiment conducted by the Mind-Body Wellness Center in Pennsylvania enlisted 111 cancer patients who were asked to play drums for 30 minutes a day. Results from the experiment showed improved immune system functioning in all of the patients. An increase in their number of cancer-fighting cells was also observed.

Potential

• Music therapy is a common form of treatment practiced by physicians and therapists alike. Despite what little is known about how music affects the mind and body, its benefits are still apparent. Known effects of music on the mind include:
  Brain waves--music that carries a strong beat has been shown to align brainwaves with the particular beat being played. Fast beats promote increased concentration and alertness. Slow beats promote a calming, meditative effect.
  Breathing and heart rate--brainwave changes go on to affect the breathing and heart rates within the body. Slowed brainwave patterns have been shown to slow the heartbeat, breathing rate and help a person relax more quickly.
  State of Mind--music has been shown to improve one's state of mind, especially in those suffering from chronic stress and depression disorders.