An exploration of music psychology and the emotional effects of music on contemporary society : the perils of viewing the world through the eyes of pop music : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Music is able to extract many emotions in even its simplest forms. The way a bow is drawn across a violin string or the sudden attack of an orchestral note can bring an individual from sadness to excitement in just a matter of seconds. While music is a direct, engaging art-form, its affects on the human brain can be astounding. Music is currently being used for therapeutic purposes, as it helps to bring an individual through even the most difficult of circumstances. However, music can also be an emotionally paralyzing medium that can leave a listener in an anti-utopia that can be almost impossible to leave. This project discusses my exploration into the psychology of music and the affects it can have. The benefits of music therapy are discussed, as well as the problematic aspects of music.Honors CollegeThesis (B.?.