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.