YPIE Scientist: Kaylie Troncoso

Research: The effect of different genres of music on intensity of beta waves in the AF7 region of the brain

Awards: Attended Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF), won “Creative Approach to Research” award on March 20th, 2025

Research Location: Yonkers Middle High School

Abstract:

Teens reported that their stress levels during the school year far exceeded what they believe to be healthy (5.8 vs. 3.9 on a 10-point scale) and topped adults' average reported stress levels (5.8 for teens vs. 5.1 for adults) (Bethune et al., 2014). Stress has become extremely normalized in our society, especially among teenagers and young adults. With the increased levels of stress, a decrease in overall quality of life has been observed, as stress can be detrimental to your mind, body, as well as your behavior towards others. Stress is a reaction on a human body to a situation which can affect the responsiveness of our central peripheral regulatory system, which leads to poorer health in the long run. Music therapy is very common, and has been studied for everyday use, to reduce stress levels. It was hypothesized that more relaxing music will rescue stress levels, while stimulating music would increase stress levels. In this study, 18 students ages 14-18 were evaluated during a 10 question arithmetic quiz using a MUSE eeg measuring headband while listening to either drill music, classical music, or silence. When comparing the intensity of beta waves in the AF7 region on the brain in microvolts, it was found that drill music induced more stress in teenagers when compared to classical music (p=.00137). Studying topics relating to stress are important to developing a way of life with minimal stress, and increase the quality of life for people.

Presentation Slides

About this Scientist:

Kaylie Troncoso is a senior at Yonkers High School. She will be attending Mercy University, majoring in Accounting within the Business Honors Program. Although she is not sure what occupation she wants in the future, she knows that she wants to live a comfortable life, and travel the world to explore a plethora of cultures.