Emotion equalization app: The effectiveness of dynamic music therapy approaches

Abstract

A recent study explored how static music playlists of relaxing or uplifting music can improve our mood. Unlike static playlists that rely exclusively on relaxing, uplifting, or consoling music, this study explores eight distinct methods to curate playlists. These approaches include transitions from one dimension to another (e.g., Angry-to-Relaxing, Angry-Uplifting, Relaxing-Uplifting, Relaxing- Natural, Sad-Relaxing, Sad-Uplifting, Uplifting-Relaxing, and Uplifting-Natural). To evaluate the effectiveness of these playlists, online experiments were conducted, wherein participants were surveyed before and after music listening to monitor changes in valence and arousal. The results reveal that Sad-Relaxing, Relaxing-Uplifting, Relaxing-Natural, and Uplifting-Natural playlists give positive changes in participants' valence levels, indicating mood improvement. As for the arousal level, the Angry-Relaxing playlist made people feel calmer. Correspondingly, the Relaxing-Uplifting playlist made people feel more energetic. Moreover, this study has identified specific pathways on a two-dimensional plane where both arousal and valence values could be profitably to good effect, including transitioning from Angry to Relaxing to Uplifting especially for arousal, and Sad to Relaxing or Uplifting especially for valence. These findings highlight how dynamic music can give rise to distinct emotional responses and influence our energy levels, and give guidelines on how to use music therapy playlists for mood enhancement.