Why Does Music Give Us Chills?

Frisson, or 'skin orgasm', is a shiver-like sensation triggered by strong emotional responses, often from music. It involves physiological changes like increased skin conductance and dopamine release. Not everyone experiences frisson, and it may be linked to brain differences and personality traits like openness to experience. Music with unexpected elements often triggers frisson, but it can also occur with visual stimuli or emotional thoughts. Studies show people with more brain connectivity between sound and emotion centers experience frisson more. To experience frisson, try listening to specific songs known to trigger it.

What physiological changes occur in the body during a frisson?

• Decreased body temperature and heart rate

• Increased skin conductance and dopamine release

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure

• Decreased dopamine levels and pupil constriction

Which musical elements are most likely to trigger a frisson?

• Consistent melodies and harmonies

• Repetitive beats and rhythms

• Sudden changes in volume or pitch

• Slow and steady tempo

How does personal taste affect the likelihood of experiencing a frisson?

• Frisson is only triggered by unfamiliar music

• It has no effect on frisson experiences

• Personal taste increases the chance of frisson with preferred music

• People are more likely to experience frisson with music they dislike

What personality trait is associated with a higher frequency of frisson experiences?

• Conscientiousness

• Openness to Experience

• Agreeableness

• Extraversion

What did studies find about brain connectivity in people who experience frisson?

• Their brain connectivity is similar to those who do not experience frisson

• They have less connectivity between auditory and emotional centers

• They have no connectivity between auditory and emotional centers

• They have more connectivity between auditory and emotional centers