Benefits Of The Mozart Effect

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Society has always had a growing fascination with human intelligence which is why society cogitate the Mozart Effect (Bangerter & Heath, 2004). Various assumptions have been made in the past regarding the plausibility of this theory, however without reliable sources, no conclusions can be drawn (Črnčec, R., Wilson, SJ., & Prior, M, 2005). Former studies concerning the Mozart Effect have helped to delineate the soundness of this theory especially regarding the effect Mozart’s composition has on an individual’s intelligence from a young age. It will be argued that former studies have not been able to provide enough evidence to support the Mozart Theory; and therefore the theory remains unresolved. This essay will critically analyse results from previous studies focusing primarily on the length of time the subject remains affected, the socio-economic statuses as well as the idea of nature vs. nurture, and also any bias inconsistencies in the findings.
Former studies have evaluated whether Mozart’s composition has continuing benefits on a child’s cognitive development. A former study conducted by Rauscher (1993) contradicts the belief that the Mozart Effect has long-term benefits for children and individuals. The study involved thirty-six college students which were directed to listen to three alternative conditions for ten minutes- Mozart piano sonata, relaxation music and silence (Rauscher, F. H., Shaw, G. L., & Ky, K. N, (1993). Using the Stanford-Binet intelligence scale, the students were immediately examined on their spatial reasoning where the results indicated the student’s mean IQs were 8-9 points higher when they listened to classical music compared to other conditions (Rauscher et al, 1993). Further examinations disclose...

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...ic; more that the structure of music lessons are able to develop a child’s susceptibility to formal education and learning.
Society has been provided with reliable results from former studies which suggest the Mozart Theory has only temporary effects. Studies have provided the answer to the ongoing, controversial theory and have discussed many factors that influence intelligence, especially in children. It is evident that socio-economic status, as well as the concept of nature vs. nurture does have influence on a child’s development and without the right nurturing and environment a child may not reach full potential. Additionally, the inconsistency of results, as well as bias and lack of repetition can conclude that the Mozart Effect is only temporary. Therefore, it is now known that there are many domains of intelligence and the former Mozart claim is not true.

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