The Effect of Music on Cognition and Task Performance

Abstract

In this theoretical paper, a review of literature discussing the effect of music on cognition and task performance is conducted. Following this investigation, the prevailing explanation for how music impacts humans (namely, the mood/arousal hypothesis) and its supporting research is discussed. In brief, the mood/arousal hypothesis states that music affects cognition and task performance by influencing our mood and/or physiological arousal, which then influences our cognition and task performance. Subsequently, a section going over the neurochemical basis for the effect of music on cognition and task performance ensues. Specifically, literature examining what neurotransmitters and hormones are influenced by music, the effects of some of those neurotransmitters and hormones, and possible connections between neurochemical literature and mood/arousal hypothesis are discussed. Lastly, this paper concludes with a summary and paragraphs containing limitations and possible future research of interest to support findings within this paper.