The Impact of Music on Human Development and Well-Being

Recent research has explored the potential of music-based programs to aid in the treatment of trauma, laryngectomy, and dementia. It has also been found that music listening can support youth development, and that musical training can improve sound encoding, reading ability, and language development. Additionally, music interventions have been found to have positive impacts on individuals with mild to profound learning disabilities.

Studies have also found that musical skills are associated with language development, and that musical training can improve cognitive and neural measures. Rhythmic movement to music has been found to be a ubiquitous behavior, and music beliefs and values of educators in early childhood education and care settings have been identified. Music performance has been used as a vehicle for social transformation and reintegration for military service members, and music technologies have been explored for their potential to provide creative musical opportunities for senior citizens.

Finally, studies have found that listening to synchronous music during running can increase time-to-exhaustion and decrease ratings of perceived exertion. Music training in regular school contexts for children from low-income communities has also been found to have a positive impact on fine motor abilities.