Salivary Cortisol and Loud Music Stress Response
Author Information
Author(s): Tomljenović Robert, Košec Andro, Kalogjera Livije, Ćelap Ivana, Marijančević Domagoj, Vagić Davor, Szczepek Agnieszka, Paul Peter V.
Primary Institution: University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
Hypothesis
Exposure to loud and pleasant music increases salivary cortisol concentration, similar to acute psychological and physical stress.
Conclusion
Loud music exposure increases salivary cortisol concentrations, but it is not perceived as stressful compared to psychological and physical stressors.
Supporting Evidence
- Salivary cortisol levels rose significantly after exposure to loud music.
- Participants reported lower stress levels after loud music compared to psychological and physical stress tests.
- Only one participant reported moderate stress after loud music exposure.
Takeaway
Listening to loud music can make your body release stress hormones, but people often don't feel stressed when they enjoy the music.
Methodology
This study used a single-center observational cross-sectional design with participants completing stress questionnaires and providing salivary cortisol samples before and after exposure to stress tests.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from participants' subjective stress perceptions and lack of detailed medical history.
Limitations
The narrow age range of participants limits generalizability, and the study did not include a control for music at lower volumes.
Participant Demographics
36 healthy participants, 18 males and 18 females, aged 20-30.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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