Characterization of Emotional Response Profiles Triggered by a Digital Artwork of Musicalized Impressionist Paintings

Global warming, progressing at a rapid pace in Canada, is causing severe consequences for ecosystems and human health. Rising temperatures accelerate glacier melting, increase heat waves, and disrupt biodiversity. These environmental changes impact mental health, notably through ecoanxiety, a form of anxiety linked to climate change. Although ecoanxiety is a natural reaction to environmental degradation, it can lead to chronic stress, generalized anxiety, and even depression. Recent studies show that ecoanxiety is increasingly common, especially among young people. In Quebec, 73% of young adults (18-35 years) report experiencing ecoanxiety, with 42% experiencing significant levels. Vulnerable populations, such as Indigenous communities like the Inuit of Nunavik, are particularly affected.

To address ecoanxiety, interventions focused on emotional management and reconnecting with nature are essential. Studies show that outdoor activities such as walking or gardening reduce negative emotions and improve well-being by fostering a connection with nature, thereby increasing resilience to climate change.

Art, especially pictorial art, is emerging as a promising tool in combating ecoanxiety. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the mental health benefits of art, which is not only beneficial for those suffering from mental illness but also for the general population. The Quebec Interministerial Mental Health Action Plan (PAISM) 2022-2026 highlights the promotion of art as a priority in mental health prevention. Among art forms, the contemplation of Impressionist paintings has shown positive effects, generating emotions of serenity and deeper reflection on our relationship with nature. Music therapy also plays a vital role in anxiety management, promoting relaxation and emotional expression.

Music, in particular, has shown promise in reducing ecoanxiety. Listening to music can alleviate anxiety and depression by stimulating the limbic system, which regulates emotions. Music can also modulate physiological stress responses and strengthen personal resilience, enhancing emotional regulation in environmental crises. An innovative approach involves creating music from electrophysiological signals captured from plants, a process known as sonification. This nature-inspired music fosters a deeper connection with the environment, potentially reducing ecoanxiety and increasing resilience.

Emotions, both positive and negative, are central to mental health. According to James Russell\'s circumplex theory of emotions, they are classified into two dimensions: valence (pleasant or unpleasant) and arousal (energy level). Positive emotions like joy and relaxation promote well-being, while negative emotions, such as anxiety and sadness, have detrimental effects on mental health. Emotional responses manifest through physiological changes, such as increased heart rate and skin conductance. Modern technologies, like functional MRI, allow researchers to observe the brain\'s activity in areas like the amygdala, responsible for emotional regulation.

Digital technologies have revolutionized the use of art in promoting mental health. Immersive digital interventions, such as apps that allow users to experience art online, have shown positive results. One such app currently in development combines the works of Impressionist painters Claude Monet and Helen McNicoll with music created from plant electrophysiological signals. This digital combination of art and nature offers emotional benefits, promoting well-being in the face of climate challenges.

It is well-established that positive emotions play a crucial role in improving mental health and protecting against ecoanxiety. Research shows that Impressionist paintings and music can generate positive emotions. This study hypothesizes that (1) observing and listening to musicalized paintings can generate positive emotions, (2) the emotional effect is stronger when both stimuli are combined, and (3) these emotions vary with age.

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Centre integre universitaire de sante et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal

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Study ID: NCT06605092