A1 Journal article (refereed)
“I hate this part right here” : embodied, subjective experiences of listening to aversive music (2022)

Peltola, H.-R., & Vuoskoski, J. K. (2022). “I hate this part right here” : embodied, subjective experiences of listening to aversive music. Psychology of Music, 50(1), 159-174. https://doi.org/10.1177/0305735620988596

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Peltola, Henna-Riikka; Vuoskoski, Jonna Katariin

Journal or series: Psychology of Music

ISSN: 0305-7356

eISSN: 1741-3087

Publication year: 2022

Publication date: 17/02/2021

Volume: 50

Issue number: 1

Pages range: 159-174

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0305735620988596

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/74388

Abstract

Although the majority of previous research on music-induced responses has focused on pleasurable experiences and preferences, it is undeniable that music is capable of eliciting strong dislike and aversion as well. To date, only limited research has been carried out to understand the subjective experience of listening to aversive music. This qualitative study explored people’s negative experiences associated with music listening, with the aim to understand what kinds of emotions, affective states, and physical responses are associated with listening to aversive music. One hundred and two participants provided free descriptions of (1) musical features of aversive music; (2) subjective physical sensations, thoughts and mental imagery evoked by aversive music; (3) typical contexts where aversive music is heard; and (4) the similarities and/or differences between music-related aversive experiences and experiences of dislike in other contexts. We found that responses to aversive music are characterized by embodied experiences, perceived loss of agency, and violation of musical identity, as well as social or moral attitudes and values. Furthermore, two “experiencer types” were identified: One reflecting a strong negative attitude toward unpleasant music, and the other reflecting a more neutral attitude. Finally, we discuss the theoretical implications of our findings in the broader context of music and emotion research.

Keywords: music psychology; emotions; negativity; aversion; bodiliness

Free keywords: negative emotions; embodiment; emotion; listening; qualitative; valence

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2022

JUFO rating: 3