The effect of classical Turkish and Western music on university students' exam stress level, blood pressure and pulse rate: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction: Exam stress may cause anxiety, worry, emotion and condition changes in university students. Students use various methods to cope with exam stress. Music is a method used to cope with anxiety that reduces the stress level of individuals by creating a deep relaxation and providing a therapeutic environment. This research was carried out in a randomized controlled pre-test and post-test to examine the effect of regular Classical Turkish and Western music on university students’ exam stress level, blood pressure and pulse findings. Material and Method: The sample of the study consisted of 88 students (40 experiments, 48 controls) studying in different departments at this University between November 2017 and February 2018. Data were collected by exam anxiety scale and personal information form. The experiment group was played 25 minutes 4 days a week total 6 weeks and Classic Western and Classical Turkish music just before the exam. Examination anxiety scale was re-applied to the experimental and control groups just before the examination, and the vital sign findings of the students were examined. Findings: The mean score of the experimental group was 41.40±9.40 and the postest mean score was 23.20±4.16 and there was a statistically significant difference (p<0.01). In addition, diastolic, systolic blood pressure and pulse rate of the students in the group who listen to music were lower than those who did not listen to music. Conclusion: It has been determined that regular music performance is an effective method in reducing the stress levels and anxiety levels of the students.