What your music choice says about your personality
A study has found the link between an individual’s music preferences and distinctive personality traits in music fans around the world.
The research, conducted by the University of Cambridge, found that those who like Ed Sheeran’s latest album are likely to be extroverted and confident, with their findings consistent across multiple countries.
Neurotic traits were found in global fans of Nirvana’s grunge hit Smells Like Teen Spirit, while most people will tend to sing Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper's Shallow, regardless of personality.
The study, which involved more than 350,000 people from over 50 countries, found that conscientious people are unlikely to like the music from Rage Against the Machine, while international borders could not stop people from playing David Bowie’s Space Oddity.
Leader of the study Dr David Greenberg, who is also a musician, said the research shows an international common ground through music.
He said, “People may be divided by geography, language and culture, but if an introvert in one part of the world likes the same music as introverts elsewhere, that suggests that music could be a very powerful bridge.”
Dr Greenberg was surprised by the results of how neuroticism is expressed through a musical outlet, expecting people would prefer a slower, more sad song to express their discomfort.
However, according to Dr Greenberg, “Actually, on average, they seem to prefer more intense musical styles, which perhaps reflects inner angst and frustration.”
“That was surprising but people use music in different ways — some might use it for catharsis, others to change their mood.”
Today, people are using music as a way to signal their personality and so, the study argues, there is potential to use music as a way to bridge gaps between different social groups through the common language of music.
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