MUSIC LISTENING AND WELL-BEING: A LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF MUSIC
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24193/subbmusica.2026.1.09Keywords:
Emotional regulation, mental health, music listening, music psychology, psychological well-beingAbstract
Music listening has been increasingly recognized as an important psychological activity associated with emotional regulation and mental well-being. This literature review examines the relationship between music listening and psychological well-being by synthesizing findings from previous empirical and theoretical studies. The review focuses on three key dimensions: emotional regulation, psychological well-being, and the underlying mechanisms explaining music-induced well-being. The analysis demonstrates that music listening functions as an adaptive strategy for managing emotional states, reducing stress, and supporting positive psychological experiences. In addition, musical engagement contributes to broader dimensions of well-being by facilitating self-reflection, strengthening social connectedness, and enhancing subjective quality of life. The reviewed literature also highlights several mechanisms through which music influences psychological outcomes, including emotional processing, cognitive reflection, and neurobiological responses. By integrating findings across multiple research perspectives, this article proposes a conceptual synthesis that clarifies the multidimensional role of music listening in promoting psychological well-being and mental health.
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