Background Music Listening Habits Differ Between Neurotypical Adults and Those Screened for ADHD
2025-04-08
An online survey of 910 young adults (17–30 years old) compared background music (BM) listening habits and subjective effects between neurotypical individuals and those who screened positive for ADHD across tasks with varying cognitive demands. The ADHD group showed a significantly higher preference for BM in specific situations, such as studying and exercising, and a stronger preference for stimulating music. However, no significant differences were found in subjective effects of BM on cognitive and emotional functioning between the groups. The study highlights the importance of adjusting BM use based on individual arousal needs and available cognitive resources, offering a novel perspective on music interventions for ADHD.