My research examined the impact of sounds--artificial and natural, threatening and non-threatening (e.g., creek, white noise, traffic, and animal screams) -- on stress recovery. We analyzed participan..
My research examined the impact of sounds--artificial and natural, threatening and non-threatening (e.g., creek, white noise, traffic, and animal screams) -- on stress recovery. We analyzed participants’ valence and arousal levels pre-sound and post-sound induction. We then examined any effects and interactions, focusing on the properties of each sound. This image reflects our original predictions that natural sounds would reduce stress to a greater extent than artificial sounds, regardless of threat level. This is captured through the stark color contrast. Our preliminary findings show that participants experience greater stress recovery following non-threatening sounds (e.g., creek, white noise) than after hearing threatening sounds (e.g., traffic, animal screams), independent of the source. The two opposing sound waves accentuate the different threat levels. While this image focuses on our hypothesis rather than our findings, it emphasizes how different sounds may impact our stress levels. [Radio waves vector image modified from Vecteezy, www.vecteezy.com/free-vector/radio-waves]