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Interventions Through Music and Interpersonal Synchrony That Enhance Prosocial Behavior: A Systematic Review

Mireia Pardo-Olmos, Manuel Martí Vilar, Sergio Hidalgo-Fuentes, Javier Cabedo-Peris

European Journal of Investigation in Health Psychology and Education, 2025

10 citations

Abstract

Prosociality is essential in human interactions, characterized by voluntary behaviors aimed at benefiting others. Promoting such behaviors is indispensable for human relationships. Studies have demonstrated positive effects of interpersonal synchrony interventions through musical sessions. Some authors suggest that the joint creation of music facilitates prosocial behaviors (PB). This review aims to determine whether evidence supports the idea that participation in a musical interpersonal synchrony experience improves PB. A systematic review of 12 selected articles was conducted. The search was carried out in databases such as WoS, Scopus, PubMed, Dialnet, Elsevier, and Eric. Results indicate that music, as a tool, creates an optimal environment for mimesis and group participation, which can enhance prosociality. Controlling variables such as sample size, population type, measurement instruments, techniques, and session design is necessary for future research. It is concluded that interpersonal synchrony through music appears to improve prosociality, although more robust studies are required.

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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.

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