When thinking of Metal music, one may imagine angry fans screaming and being very outspoken all of the time. However, new research indicates that fans of the genre may not be as intensely angry as depicted.
Researchers conducted a survey with 551 college students regarding their musical tastes and subgenre preferences as well as levels of anger, anxiety and depression.
1. It’s a form of self-expression
Metal music provides many individuals with a means of self-expression. Although commonly associated with rebellion and disregarding authority, its melancholic side explores depression, loneliness and anxiety – lyrics in metal songs can help listeners identify with those emotions as they’re expressed while providing a cathartic experience for listeners.
Rooted in rock history, metal music has long provided fans an escape from reality fantasy world through its outlandish and fantastical themes. But the heavy influence of blues rock adds more realistic yet cathartic qualities that help listeners process difficult emotions more effectively. Listeners can connect with dark themes of metal music and find comfort knowing that they’re not alone in their struggles.
Metalheads often face the misconception that they are at greater risk for mental health issues such as depression and self-harm due to mainstream culture’s tendency to stereotype subcultures collectively and apply negative labels across them all. Studies, however, have revealed that metalheads do not present greater risk than the general population for such conditions despite the aggressive lyrics found in their favorite songs.
Some research indicates that music may play a part in encouraging externalizing behaviors in adolescents; however, this should be taken with caution and taken as only an indicator. Other factors like family separation and parental involvement are more significant predictors of suicidal thoughts and rates among adolescents. Still other studies have shown that metal music may help lower stress levels while increasing positive emotions – particularly if its lyrics reflect on personal experiences such as love, friendships or family matters.
Humboldt State University conducted another study focusing on musicians and fans involved in the metal scene in the 80s to evaluate any long-term consequences on their lives. While metal fans were more likely to engage in stereotypical reckless behaviors than non-metal fans, they were no more likely to commit suicide or experience mental problems than non-metal fans; rather their tight-knit community provided emotional regulation which helped keep psychological and physical illnesses at bay.
2. It’s a form of socialization
Heavy metal music creates a sense of community, and fans frequently connect through “flow,” often found while listening to their favorite bands. This phenomenon is commonly known as synchronicity and it is believed to help reduce levels of cortisol hormone which causes stress; thus helping reduce depression as it helps relax you more and makes you feel connected with those around you.
Music’s impact on mood regulation may vary based on factors like gender and personality. One study revealed that females reported higher distress when listening to rock music than men did despite no discernable difference in how often they used music-based emotion regulation strategies.
Another interesting discovery was that some listeners find the lyrics of heavy metal music to be perceived as threatening by some listeners, due to the frequent use of aggressive language featured in heavy metal lyrics and perceived as potentially threatening by certain listeners, leading them to react negatively – for instance increasing anger levels or experiencing other adverse side effects.
Studies have revealed a correlation between high rates of teenage suicide and music with aggressive themes being consumed, and subsequent suicide attempts. While not conclusive, studies suggest this correlation exists and note that it has been reduced when controlling for potential confounding factors like parental status, financial strain and migration status.
One study discovered that adolescent suicidal behavior is closely tied to heavy metal music associated with goth subcultures, particularly heavy metal associated with goth subcultures that cultivates negative attitudes of at-risk teens towards social authority and religiosity. Other research indicates that girls associated with these culture are at an increased risk for depression and self-harm.
Noteworthy is the negative stereotypes associated with metal music can influence how health care professionals assess patients. One study discovered that 83% of mental health facilities recommended hospitalisation for a hypothetical young male associated with heavy metal music culture despite having consumed no alcohol or drugs and showing no sign of depression or aggression (Rosenbaum & Prinsky, 1991). Thus more research within non-clinical populations must be conducted to ascertain if such negative stereotypes hold validity and should influence diagnostic decisions.
3. It’s a form of addiction
Heavy metal music can often be seen as an addiction. Many individuals find comfort in its ability to allow them to express themselves freely without society judging, helping them feel connected and in control of their lives while relieving negative emotions such as sadness. Furthermore, heavy metal has also proven an effective means for managing cortisol levels which is key for stress reduction.
Some believe listening to metal can cause depression or lead to an increase in suicide or self-harm rates, yet there is no scientific proof for either claim. Metal music serves as an outlet for anger and frustration while providing relief, connecting listeners with those who share similar tastes for its genre, and uniting fans of all styles together under its umbrella.
Though many metal songs contain lyrics with less-than-desirable themes, most don’t depict violence or acts of aggression. Studies have found that listening to metal music may make listeners feel angry and aggressive but this does not translate into antisocial behaviors; it is important to differentiate between aggression and anger as this latter term refers to physical behaviors while aggression refers to feelings or emotions which could lead to aggression.
Humboldt State University conducted an in-depth research study following metal musicians and fans throughout their lives to ascertain if metal music had any negative long-term repercussions. While participants engaged in some stereotypical reckless behavior, such as attempted suicide or early sexual relations compared to non-metal counterparts; moreover, their tight-knit community provided some protection from mental and physical illness.
Scientists too have often relied on stereotypes. For instance, one study involved researchers approaching clinicians at 12 psychiatric hospitals while pretending to be worried parents about John, an adolescent boy who loved heavy metal music and wore skull T-shirts – all while pretending he did not do drugs, display symptoms of mental illness or have any academic difficulties. All 12 clinics reported back that John did not use drugs or show signs of mental illness and was performing well academically.
4. It’s a form of self-harm
Heavy metal music has long been linked with aggressive behavior and suicide attempts; some research suggests this link as being causal, though many other studies point out its beneficial use for emotional regulation and mood improvement.
Lyrically, metal music often features themes of violence, aggression and misogyny that can have detrimental effects on a person’s mental health and increase the risk of suicide.
However, music’s positive effects outweigh its drawbacks, and researchers are increasingly investigating its use as an effective mood regulator. According to research studies, listening to music can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress as well as help people connect emotionally while forging connections within communities; furthermore it can make one feel energized and empowered.
Metal fans have reported that, contrary to popular perception, its music helps them feel energized and inspired. Metal can provide an outlet for anger management while providing a way for expressing feelings freely. Many find that listening to metal makes them more active and inspired; giving them new perspectives on life.
Metal fans tend to be less impulsive or inclined to disregard social norms than non-fans; some studies have even revealed that listeners to metal are more likely to be well-adjusted individuals than non-listeners. Furthermore, metal is a democratic music genre; many fans become musicians themselves or work within its industry to keep its subculture and community intact.
Though metal music often receives negative attention, many studies have revealed its ability to help improve mood and energize individuals. Indeed, studies have demonstrated its positive benefits being utilized in psychiatric care as a treatment option for disorders linked to emotional volatility. It should also be noted that its negative associations stem from stigma and media portrayal.
Heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Judas Priest set the initial standard with dark, occult-inspired lyrics and dissonant electric guitar riffs. Metallica and Slayer soon followed suit in taking speed and aggression further while Glam metal bands like Poison and Motley Crue added big hair and fashion forward style into their music.
Depression
Depression is a prevalent mental health condition that impacts millions worldwide. Depression’s symptoms often include feelings of sadness and hopelessness; heavy metal music can provide some relief by encouraging an optimistic view on life; it also fosters community among fans that help combat loneliness associated with depression.
Though some have misconstrued metal as being evil or demonic, it can actually be an invaluable aid for combatting mental illness – particularly bipolar disorder. Bipolar is characterized by symptoms including high energy levels, racing thoughts, pressured speech and an increase in libido; similarly fast tempos of speed metal and death metal subgenres may provide similar experiences when experiencing manic episodes.
Metal bands have also integrated themes of mental health into their lyrics. Many songs feature experiences from band members that depict how they overcame difficulties and gave listeners hope that they too can overcome difficulties, showing they are not alone in facing hardships.
Studies have demonstrated that people who listen to metal have lower rates of depression and anxiety than those who do not; however, these results cannot directly ascribe these benefits to metal music itself or whether its listening helps alleviate negative feelings associated with depression and anxiety.
Depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening disorder; if you find yourself experiencing any of its symptoms, it is essential that you seek professional medical assistance immediately.
Heavy metal has a rich and varied history that spans multiple decades and draws inspiration from both male and female artists alike. Its roots can be traced to the 1970s when Black Sabbath and Judas Priest first burst onto the British rock scene – two groups which would go on to achieve mainstream success as mainstream heavy metal groups; after this success other artists began pushing experimental forms forward within heavy metal, with nu metal becoming popular during this decade, which combined elements of both thrash metal with hip hop music and industrial tracks.
Anxiety
Music plays an integral role in our emotional lives, helping us express ourselves and connect with others while also altering our moods. If someone is feeling anxious, listening to soothing music may help calm them down; however, some genres such as heavy metal can actually increase anxiety levels; according to studies done, its fast tempo and loud sounds may trigger feelings of paranoia, anxiety and fear in some. Furthermore, its fast pace may cause feelings of powerlessness; it may also prompt negative self-criticism or shame from individuals listening.
Heavy metal is a subgenre of rock music that emerged during the 1970s. It evolved from hard rock bands combining blues-influenced guitar riffs with dark lyrics – think Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath for starters – before later bands like Metallica and Motorhead added their unique influences to make heavy metal even more accessible and popular; Metallica particularly stood out thanks to their aggressive style and technical proficiency; while Iron Maiden with their iconic songs and Eddie has become an all-time classic classic within heavy metal music history.
Some researchers have expressed alarm over prolonged exposure to music with violent and aggressive themes being linked with increases in anger, antisocial behavior, aggression, substance use and suicidal thoughts among community and psychiatric populations. Unfortunately these conclusions cannot establish causation links; alternative research indicates that aggression varies greatly according to individual factors including personality and mental health status.
Studies have also demonstrated that listening to aggressive music may provide some people with an effective mood regulation strategy. Listening to aggressive music has been proven to temporarily reduce negative emotions such as sadness or anxiety by relieving stress and decreasing physiological arousal levels. Metal music in particular can make some feel empowered over their lives.
Further research needs to be conducted into the effects of mood-regulating music on wellbeing and mental health for people who listen. This research can be especially important when understanding long-term implications of adopting specific emotion regulation strategies as well as informing clinical decision making (i.e. whether to discourage or encourage music as therapy).
Stress
Heavy metal music often features lyrics depicting aggression, violence and misogyny which may cause listeners to feel anxious or stressed out. Furthermore, some elements within this genre like amplified guitars and distorted vocals may also elicit feelings of fear or anger in listeners. Yet contrary to popular perceptions, listening to this type of music may serve as an emotion regulation strategy; an experiment conducted where participants who were made angry were given heavy metal music as an emotional regulation strategy while classical music served as control proved they calmed faster than their classical counterparts counterparts did.
Studies suggest that this effect of music lies more in its interpretation and perception, rather than any direct correlation with feelings like anxiety and stress. One such experiment involved making female adolescent participants feel irritable before playing either classical music chosen by an experimenter or self-selected “calming” music from them – classical music was shown to reduce levels of irritation, anger and physiological arousal much faster than heavy metal music played at that same moment in time.
These findings corroborate prior research indicating that individuals high in Openness to Experience tend to favor more intense, complex, and unconventional forms of music and gravitate toward heavier genres like metal music. However, such correlation should be approached cautiously given evidence suggesting its influence can also come from other personal factors like seeking uniqueness and having a negative attitude toward authority.
One study has recently demonstrated that female fans of heavy metal music may be at a greater risk for depression than non-fans. This finding may be attributable to affiliation between fandom and depressed peers as well as lyrics depicting depression within many metal songs. Further investigation should continue into how fandom impacts emotional and psychological well-being among both non-clinical populations as well as clinical populations.
Self-Esteem
Heavy metal music can be an intense form of expression for some individuals. It can help them feel connected to an engaged community of fans with similar interests, and its lyrics may explore difficult themes such as death. But metal can have negative repercussions for one’s self-esteem; policy makers, mental health professionals, and correctional facilities all take seriously correlational studies between metal music and suicide (C. Baker & Brown 2016). More research must be conducted within nonclinical as well as clinical populations to establish whether these associations are genuine (C. Baker & Brown 2016).
Although metal music may sometimes express feelings of anger and aggression, there is no evidence to support that listening to this genre sensitizes people to violence. A small 2015 study actually demonstrated the opposite – when people were made angry before being exposed to metal music they tend to calm down more rapidly than those not exposed to this genre of music.
Metal music’s arousal effect could contribute to increased aggression; however, more research needs to be completed in this field. Furthermore, other factors besides metal can impact aggression – for instance genes, environmental conditions and personality traits such as sensation seeking. Considering self-esteem studies also play a part here. Correlation studies can often be used as the basis for policy decisions or restricting access to certain media forms; it is vital that we fully comprehend their context as causation cannot be inferred based on correlation alone (Walser 2013).
Metal music may contain dark artistic elements, including violence and death themes, but this doesn’t have any direct ramifications on self-esteem – which is important since self-esteem has an enormous effect on emotions, interpersonal relationships and academic/work performance. Depression or anxiety could also negatively impact self-esteem; antidepressants or cognitive therapy treatments could potentially help manage this impactful condition.