What is the neurochemical basis for music's role in social bonding and emotional well-being?
Project by Polygence alum Taliyah
Project's result
A literature review examining the neurochemical basis of music’s role in social bonding and emotional well-being, published on the Open Science Framework (OSF). I plan to expand its reach by submitting it to additional academic platforms in the future
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Summary
Music is a language understood by all cultures of the earth and is known to bring deep emotional and cognitive responses while fostering social flow within groups. Music may influence social bonding, feelings of reward/pleasure, and mood by affecting key neurotransmitters in the brain associated with these variables. This review addresses whether music can enhance feelings of social connectedness, reduce stress, and impact overall emotional well-being by increasing the levels of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. Additionally, the review discusses the therapeutic potential of music in disorders characterized by dysfunction of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin systems. Specifically, it highlights the use of music in interventions for mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and autism. Further research is crucial to uncover the impact of music on neurotransmitter systems, brain function, and mental/social health.
Sweyta
Polygence mentor
PhD Doctor of Philosophy
Subjects
Psychology, Neuroscience
Expertise
systems neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, cognitive psychology, addiction, neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders, MATLAB programming, biostatistics
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Taliyah
Student
Graduation Year
2027
Project review
“Nothing fell short of my expectations—in fact, many aspects far surpassed them. The resources provided by both my mentor and Polygence proved invaluable throughout the project. Additionally, the flexible schedule made balancing this work with my school responsibilities far smoother than I had anticipated.”
About my mentor
“Having her as a mentor was a wonderful experience! She is exceptionally supportive and insightful and ensures new researchers, like me, feel confident in their work. She offers thoughtful guidance with patience and kindness, which has greatly enhanced my skills and understanding.”
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