Why does the same song keep playing in your head over and over again? Understand the science behind this musical game.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Has it ever happened to you that you heard a song early in the morning and now it's playing on a loop in your head all day? Try as you might, but that tune just won't leave your mind! If so, believe me, you're not alone. 

In scientific terms, this strange condition is called an earworm. It comes from the German word Ohrwurm, meaning earworm. However, there's no need to panic, as this isn't a real worm, but rather an interesting psychological experience. But the question is, why does this happen? Let's understand the science behind this musical game.

What is an earworm?

An earworm is a specific part of a song, usually a 15- to 30-second snippet, that keeps replaying in our minds. Often, it's the catchiest part of the song or its chorus, which we might hum without even thinking about it. 

Interestingly, the entire song never gets stuck in the mind, only a small part of it remains on repeat mode.

What songs become earworms?

Not every song becomes an earworm. Songs that typically stick in our minds are those that have a fast tempo and a rhythm that's easy to sing. These songs easily stick in our minds. Advertising jingles and popular pop songs are designed in a similar way, to get stuck in your head.

The real reason a song gets stuck in your head

Our brain works like an operating system. It has a part called the phonological loop. This loop connects our auditory cortex to the parts that process memories and emotions.

Sometimes a specific word, an old memory, or an emotion triggers the song. For example, if you heard a song in a certain place as a child, seeing that place again may automatically bring the song to mind.

Who are these songs bothering the most?

• Stress and emptiness – When our mind is under a lot of stress or we are sitting completely idle, then the mind catches hold of any repetitive thing.
• Musical Involvement – ​​If you are a musician or have a keen interest in music, you are more likely to get earworms than others.
• People with OCD- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, neurotics, or those who are fond of trying new things, can easily get songs stuck in their heads.

How to get rid of earworms?

• Listen to the entire song. When you try to block out a song, your mind will loop it even more. So don't try to avoid the song.
• Chew gum – When you chew gum, your jaw movement interrupts the phonological loop that causes the song to leave your mind.

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