Researchers ran four studies with people from universities and local communities to learn why live music improves well-being. They collected survey data from people who had recently attended music festivals and concerts.
The studies linked a social process called collective effervescence to positive outcomes. Collective effervescence is a combined sense of connection to others and a feeling of sacredness during a shared event. The first two studies showed a close connection between this feeling and well-being, and the final two studies replicated those results.
The researchers found that the positive effects can linger for days. The results were published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies topics scientificallyResearchers
- collective effervescence — shared strong connection and feeling of sacredness
- well-being — general feeling of health and happiness
- survey — set of questions to collect information
- replicate — to do again and get the same resultreplicated
- sacredness — quality of being special or religiously important
- linger — to stay or continue for a time
- outcome — result or effect of an action or eventoutcomes
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Discussion questions
- Have you ever felt a strong connection to others at a concert or festival? Describe it.
- How do you think shared events like concerts can affect people's well-being?
- What other kinds of group events might create a feeling similar to collective effervescence?
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