title: Background music: effects on attention performance.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Previous studies indicate that noise may affect worker attention. However, some background music in the work environment can increase worker satisfaction and productivity. This study compared how music with, and without, lyrics affects human attention.
  
  
  METHODS
  One hundred and two participants, aged 20-24 years, were recruited into this study. Fifty-six males and 46 females participated in this study.
  
  
  METHODS
  Background music with, and without lyrics, was tested for effects on listener concentration in attention testing using a randomized controlled trial (RCT) study.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The comparison results revealed that background music with lyrics had significant negative effects on concentration and attention.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The findings suggest that, if background music is played in the work environment, music without lyrics is preferable because songs with lyrics are likely to reduce worker attention and performance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Xinzhuang City, Taiwan. 062161@mail.fju.edu.tw
authors.forename: Yi-Nuo
authors.initials: YN
authors.lastname: Shih
authors.forename: Rong-Hwa
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Huang
authors.forename: Hsin-Yu
authors.initials: HY
authors.lastname: Chiang
mesh_terms: D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D004007:Dichotic Listening Tests; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009146:Music / Q000523:psychology*; D009623:Noise, Occupational / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013016:Sound / Q000009:adverse effects; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013624:Taiwan; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D017132:Workplace / Q000523:psychology; D055815:Young Adult