Exploring Therapeutic Effects in Music and Video Playlist in Active and Passive Music Therapy Approaches

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Department of Computer Science and Engineering


PhD Thesis Defence


Title: "Exploring Therapeutic Effects in Music and Video Playlist in Active 
and Passive Music Therapy Approaches"

By

Miss Man Hei LAW


Abstract:

The prevalence of individuals suffering from mental health issues is on the 
rise, now as common as catching the flu. Human resources in mental health 
care remain limited across mental health care units. How can we provide 24/7 
services and a non-invasive approach in such situations? This thesis 
investigates the therapeutic benefits of algorithmic music and music video 
selection applied to multisensory and single-sensory passive music therapy 
approaches. This thesis also covers with highlights on walking, music video, 
and music listening approaches.

The algorithmic selection methods are based on the energy and mood of music, 
considering music in four general categories: Happy, Angry, Sad, and 
Relaxed. The study of active music therapy approach integrates single 
category music selection into daily walking routines through our research 
app, "Emotion Equalization App". It reveals how categorized music impacts 
participants' emotions, even manipulating the use of negative mood music. 
Additionally, it explores the influence of music videos on emotional 
well-being, emphasizing the strategies to enhance emotional impact including 
limiting music video consumption and using dynamic sequencing methods for 
distraction and relaxation. Moreover, the passive listening approaches also 
promote mental health and mood improvements across severity of depression 
and anxiety. By investigating the impact of these approaches on mental 
health balance, particularly in depression and anxiety conditions, this 
thesis aims to provide the directions of how digital music therapy 
interventions can be implemented for supporting mental health care agencies 
in 24/7 mode and staying connected and being responsive to our users' 
emotions, daily routines, and current trends.


Date:                   Monday, 12 May 2025

Time:                   4:00pm - 6:00pm

Venue:                  Room 3494
                        Lifts 25/26

Chairman:               Prof. Janet Hui-wen HSIAO (SOSC)

Committee Members:      Prof. Andrew HORNER (Supervisor)
                        Prof. Gary CHAN
                        Dr. Arpit NARECHANIA
                        Prof. Keith LAU (LIFS)
                        Dr. Dan LIN (EdUHK)