Judging Personality from Music Taste
Wang Haiyang
Can someone’s taste in music reveal their personality? Recent scientific studies have explored the correlation between music preferences and personality traits, yielding some surprising findings.
For instance, research suggests that mentally ill patients may be more drawn to black street rhythm music, while those who enjoy pop music tend to be more affable. Contrary to stereotypes, individuals who listen to heavy metal music are actually less likely to exhibit violent behavior.
Social psychologists from Bar-Ilan University in Israel and Columbia Business School in the United States have discovered that people often gravitate towards music that aligns with their own personality. Fans of artists like David Bowie or the band Radiohead may be attracted to their music due to shared characteristics.
A study involving 80,000 fans and 50 famous musicians found that fans are naturally drawn to artists who exhibit traits similar to their own. This research, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, indicates that music can act as a unifying force in a society marked by increasing social divisions.
Furthermore, modern music styles like strong low frequency have also been linked to specific personality traits. Men, for example, tend to prefer music with pronounced bass, and a preference for bass music has been associated with a tendency towards psychosis.
In a separate study conducted by clinical psychologists at New York University, individuals with higher levels of psychopathic tendencies were more likely to enjoy black street music, including songs by Eminem. On the other hand, those with lower levels of psychopathy tended to favor songs by pop singer Sia.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have found a connection between individuals’ cognitive styles and their music preferences. Empathetic individuals may gravitate towards softer music, while those who approach problems analytically may prefer music with stronger tones like punk rock or heavy metal.
Contrary to common stereotypes, psychologists from Macquarie University in Australia have shown that listening to heavy metal music does not equate to violent behavior. In fact, listeners of this genre may derive a powerful and cathartic experience from the music, rather than being incited to violence.
These findings shed light on the intricate relationship between music taste and personality, offering new insights for record companies and highlighting the complex ways in which music can shape our identities.