Feeling Aggressive This Monday? Combat That with Aggressive Music

I know, I know. That headline doesn’t seem to make much sense. Wouldn’t aggressive, violent music make you more aggressive and violent? Not according to science.

Research by The University of Queensland’s School of Psychology honours student Leah Sharman and Dr Genevieve Dingle reveals the opposite. Her findings say that extreme music–metal, industrial, etc.,–can have a positive influence on anyone feeling angry.  From The Daily Mail:

‘We found the music regulated sadness and enhanced positive emotions,’ Ms Sharman said. “When experiencing anger, extreme music fans liked to listen to music that could match their anger. The music helped them explore the full gamut of emotion they felt, but also left them feeling more active and inspired. Results showed levels of hostility, irritability and stress decreased after music was introduced, and the most significant change reported was the level of inspiration they felt.”

Who are we to argue? Enjoy a break with Nine Inch Nails and cheer up.