Meaning in Music-Based Pain Modulation

An Investigation of the Intersection of Affect and Meaning in Music-Based Pain Modulation

The overall goal of this project is to examine the impact of music's meaning on pain. Relationships between trait affect, meaning in life, and subjective qualities of meaningful music will be assessed. We will also conduct interviews with a subset of participants to determine which aspects of music are most meaningful and how this meaning increases or decreases pain sensations.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-65 years old
• Absence of acute or chronic pain
• Normal hearing (either naturally or with assistance of hearing device)
• Must be able to wear an EEG
• Able to sign consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• < 18 or > 65 years old
• Presence of acute pain (brief pain inventory score > 3)
• Pregnant women
• Participant reports that they experience pain on more days than not in the past 6 months (i.e., chronic