A study of the type and characteristics of relaxing music for college students

Abstract

It is believed that music has the power to soften emotions and alleviate pains. The essence of this power has been encoded by researchers. This study was aimed to explore the effects of music preference and stress-associated responses of college students when they listen to music. The objectives of this study were (1) to survey the music types of relaxing music for college students, and the difference in gender and study majors; (2) to investigate the effects of musical preference, music expertise, and awareness of musical content on the students' perception of relaxation; and (3) to analyze the correspondences of musical emotions with musical characteristics, such as tempo, mode, and dynamic range. Participants were asked to listen to selected music pieces, and to rate their 3-dimensional emotional responses, pleasant-unpleasant, calm-arousal, and relaxing-stress, on 5-point Likert scales. Data collection of music compositions and personal music taste was acquired using surveys. The findings are expected to demonstrate how researchers can (1) understand college students' listening habits, (2) collect music repertoire suitable for university students to alleviate their stress, and (3) offer advice for music appreciation teachers, psychological consultation personnel, and clinical therapists.