The impact of musicking on emotion regulation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

The ability to regulate one’s emotions is integral to well-being and recent studies have documented the relationship between music and emotion regulation strategies. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the impact of musicking on emotion regulation. To achieve this objective, a systematic database search for randomized control trial (RCT) studies was conducted. Eight studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected, involving 441 participants, and employing a diversity of musicking intervention strategies including listening, playing, and creating. The overall effect size was d = 0.45; p < .01. Moderator analyses were conducted. The discussion focuses on perspectives for music education, prevention programs, and public policies for the general population and music as a potential resource contributing to well-being.