YPIE Scientist: Jeimy Aguilar

Research: Determining the Most Effective Art Genre in Reducing Stress and Anxiety Among Adolescents Using EEG Data

Research Location: Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE)

Mentor: Dr. Humm

Abstract:

Anxiety and stress are the most common mental health conditions globally, affecting millions of people and decreasing overall well-being. Art therapy has been shown to alleviate these symptoms, yet little research has explored which specific art genres are most effective. This study sought to determine which art genre—abstract landscapes, sketching, or mixed media—is most effective in reducing stress and anxiety among adolescents, using brainwave data as a primary metric. The experiment involved 90 participants aged 15–18 from a public high school, selected through surveys distributed in person and via social media. Participants completed a pre-survey on art preferences and familiarity. The three most preferred art genres were selected for testing. Using MUSE electroencephalography (EEG) devices, participants’ brain wave activity was measured at baseline and during the viewing of two art pieces from each genre. After each viewing, participants rated their emotional responses using a Likert scale ranging from 0 (increased stress) to 5 (felt relaxed). Results indicated that abstract landscape paintings elicited the greatest reduction in stress and anxiety. EEG data showed significantly lower brainwave activity during and after viewing landscapes, compared to sketching and mixed media. On the Likert scale, abstract landscapes consistently scored 4 or 5 from the majority of participants, supporting the EEG findings. Sketching and mixed media also had calming effects, but to a lesser degree. The data suggest that landscapes’ soothing colors and natural forms contribute to a more relaxed emotional state. This study concludes that abstract landscape art is the most effective genre for reducing anxiety and stress in adolescents. These findings can guide future art therapy practices by helping therapists select genres that optimize emotional relief.

Presentation Slides