Abstract:
The relationship between music preferences with associated stress was
suggested in previous studies and music was proposed as a popular
diversion strategy from stressors to resort to on a daily basis. However, the
possibility of utilizing music as a potential perceived stress reducer in Sri
Lanka is seldom studied. This preliminary study assesses the associations
between the preference for selected music genres and the respective
perceived stress of Sri Lankans in urbs and suburbs. Participants (n=75)
were selected representing five economic classes (Upper, Upper Middle,
Middle, Working, and Poor), and three age categories (Generation-y, x, and
Baby Boomers). Ten music model tracks were selected representing ten
music genres, i.e., new age, romantic instrumental, gypsy music, jazz, folk,
nature music, Indian classical, western classical, rock, and hip-hop. The
preferences were evaluated using a 9-point visual scale and perceived stress
was evaluated using a previously validated perceived stress scale (PSS),
developed by Sheldon Cohen. Results suggested that the participated
individuals with high perceived stress tend to prefer romantic instrumental,
rock, and hip-hop genres. The stressed individuals in the middle class and
working class showed preference towards rock while in poor class, showed
preference towards romantic instrumental. Interestingly, the impact of age on
the observed correlations was not significant. This pilot study provides
evidence that the perceived stress of the selected population in Sri Lanka
does have a connection with their individual preferences for romantic
instrumental, rock, and hip-hop music genres, and the findings of this study
warrant a similar study in a wider population in the future.
