A new study from the University Of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia has provided the world with a new perspective on extreme music. According to the researchers, extreme music was categorized by having powerful sounds that were heavy and aggressive, and expressive vocals. This included many of the sometimes taboo genres of music like hardcore, heavy metal, emo, screamo and punk. What the researchers were trying to find out was if aggressive music leads to anger and violence. What they found out was shocking to say the least.
The Method
The procedure involved two groups of participants that were riled up in an anger interview to get their blood pressure rising. Both groups were told to reflect on times that made them particularly angry for about 16 minutes each. One group was informed to bring the music they listen too when they are infuriated while the other was told to wait in silence. Both groups had 10 minutes before anything else happened.
The Findings
Although being carefully selected, the ones that were listening to the aggressive music did not subsequently act out violently. “Rather, they showed a decrease in subjective hostility and irritability that was equivalent to those who sat in silence,” explain the researchers. They continue, “This study found that extreme music fans listen to music when angry to match their anger, and to feel more active and inspired. They also listen to music to regulate sadness and to enhance positive emotions.”
