An Exploratory Study of Physiological Changes during “Chills” Induced by Music

Abstract

The present study utilized an experimental method consisting of subjective and objective measures to assess physiological and psychological changes occurring during chills induced by music. Piloerection (“goosebump” formation), skin temperature; and galvanic skin response (GSR) were used to monitor peripheral nervous system changes during the response. It was hypothesized that significant changes in parameters would coincide with perceived experiences of chills when compared with other sections of music where chills were not perceived. Thirty two students (16 musicians and 16 non-musicians) were assessed while listening to music, both familiar and unfamiliar. The experiment then appeared to replicate the general experience of chills induced by music for this population. Results suggested that the experience of chills corresponded to significant changes in GSR and was associated with piloerection in some instances. No significant changes in skin temperature were evident.