![]() Now researchers are discovering that music may affect oxytocin levels in the body. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide affiliated with breast-feeding and sexual contact, and is known to play an important role in increasing bonding and trust between people. Ellen Dissanayake explains why.ĭiscover how playing music together can help kids develop empathy.ĭiscover how the arts enhance educational achievement. Throughout our history, humans have felt compelled to make art. Arguably, cooperation increases trust between individuals and increases one’s chances of future cooperation-important factors in human evolutionary success and societal stability. Playing music in a band or singing in a choir certainly involves cooperation as well-whether in preparation for the performance or during the performance. Though it’s unclear exactly why that happens, coordinating movement with another person is linked to the release of pleasure chemicals (endorphins) in the brain, which may explain why we get those positive, warm feelings when we make music together. According to researchers, when we try to synch with others musically-keeping the beat or harmonizing, for example-we tend to feel positive social feelings towards those with whom we’re synchronizing, even if that person is not visible to us or not in the same room. Performing music involves coordinating of our efforts, too…at least if we want to produce a pleasing sound. ![]() coming together for a concert), it provided a net of physical and psychological safety that may have helped our early ancestors-and may still help us-to survive. Since music had to involve contact with others (e.g. Music increases contact, coordination, and cooperation with othersįor much of human history, the only way to experience music was live-there were no recordings allowing us to share music outside of performance. Here are some ways scientists believe that music strengthens social bonds. There is something about listening to music, or playing it with other people, that brings its own social buzz, making you feel connected to those around you. ![]() After all, a music concert is one of the few times when we will gather together with thousands of other people to engage in a shared activity. Be curious about others, yourself, and the world this monthĪlthough music can certainly be played and listened to alone, in the shower or on your iPod, it is also a powerful social magnet. ![]()
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