Heavy metal music often contains themes of sexism, violence, occultism, drug use and aggression that should be avoided by children and teenagers. Furthermore, this form of music promotes antiauthority beliefs while encouraging aggression – thus making this type of music harmful for their development.
Research must continue on the long-term effects of music in mood regulation in order to inform decisions made by therapists regarding engagement in music that maximizes well-being while minimising maladaptive risk.
It’s loud
Heavy metal music can be extremely loud, which poses serious threats to babies. Loud noises may lead to hearing loss in infants as well as increasing their risk for ear infections. If you’re concerned about your child’s exposure to loud music, consult their pediatrician.
Heavy metal music has long been associated with aggression and masculinity, and its lyrics have been linked with various negative behaviors including delinquency and disrespect for social norms. Unfortunately, correlational research makes causal inferences difficult – studies have found that listeners of metal tend to be more aggressive; however researchers were not able to differentiate between effects caused by listening to metal vs preexisting tendencies for aggression.
Heavy metal music may contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. According to one study published by Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, those who listen to heavy metal music were twice as likely to have heart disease than those who don’t listen – though no explanation was offered as for why there was an increased prevalence.
Heavy metal music remains an immensely popular genre, drawing large audiences worldwide. Iron Maiden and Saxon both earned significant fan bases during the 70s – known as metalheads – who enjoyed listening to their tunes. Metal is known for being both melodically compelling as well as highly aggressive soundscapes; thus its name.
Some bands utilize the power metal style, a blend of melodic and technical rock music. Meanwhile, others favor death metal’s heavy sound and aggressive style, which features less melodic melodies but still plenty of volume. Whatever their preference may be, most metal fans are highly committed to the genre’s music; listening regularly while attending concerts when possible.
Metal music is known for its heavy sound and repetitive, monotonous vocals. Some metal artists even employ the technique known as scream singing, which can be painful for singers. Furthermore, guitar parts played in metal typically involve distortion and high volumes which add intensity and heighten musical enjoyment.
It’s aggressive
Heavy metal music has generated much controversy regarding its effects and purported links to violence, aggression and Satanism. Furthermore, some psychologists and therapists have even spoken out against its genre, asserting it can cause psychological issues like suicide and delinquency; yet no conclusive link has ever been shown between heavy metal and such negative behaviors.
Heavy metal music’s lyrics often depict aggression, violence and misogyny; as a result, researchers have explored whether listening to this genre may increase anger and aggression among fans and non-fans alike. However, it should be remembered that there is an important distinction between anger and aggression: anger can be provoked by various sources, including violence or misogyny; yet does not always lead to aggressive behaviors (McFerran et al. 2016).
Researchers have also discovered that listening to heavy metal music may actually benefit mental health, with one study finding that metalheads were better at thinking logically about complex subjects than others, due to the intense sound of metal’s intense sound reducing stress levels and improving cognitive functions. However, these benefits apply only for those who truly enjoy this genre; those who dislike it may become annoyed and distracted by it instead of becoming more logical or focused by listening.
Studies have also demonstrated a correlation between metal music and personality traits like uniqueness needs, antiauthoritarianism attitudes and low religiosity; yet some studies suggest metal is linked with these behaviors as correlational data does not allow causal inferences (Brummert-Lennings & Warburton 2011).
Overall, it would be unwise to discourage your baby from listening to heavy metal if they find enjoyment in it; indeed there is evidence it can have numerous positive benefits on mood and behavioral health. But if they disliked this genre of music then try finding another genre more suited to their tastes.
It’s sexist
Heavy metal music has long had issues with sexism. Although more women and queer-identifying people are working in metal than before, its majority-male audience still attracts bigots who wish to perpetuate misogynist views against women. Although such attitudes have existed for some time, social media platforms and the Weinstein scandal have shed more light on them than ever.
Although some metal bands promote more inclusive cultures, most metal bands continue to use images and lyrics that depict violence against women. Many have also been accused of sexism, racism and anti-Semitism – though metal itself may not be responsible for these attitudes; nonetheless it serves as an outlet for those seeking an outlet for their animus.
Researchers have investigated how music can impact one’s mental health and behavior. Their study determined that listening to metal music may lead to aggression and antisocial behaviors due to its strong emotional content containing themes of violence. It is important to keep in mind that anger and aggression are two separate emotions: Anger may simply be normal feelings while aggression involves attacking others directly.
Metal music has long been associated with substance abuse, sexuality and the occult. Parents worry that such associations could radically change their children’s behaviors and attitudes toward other people – this should be taken very seriously and parents should carefully evaluate any risks before permitting their child to listen to heavy metal.
Although metal music may seem sexist to some people, some believe otherwise. They argue that sexism is part of rock and metal culture and often caused by fans themselves rather than music itself. However, most forms of sexism in metal are caused by fans themselves rather than music itself.
It’s Satanic
Metal music has long been associated with Satanism and the occult, partly due to many sub-genres being steeped in references related to these subjects; such as thrash, doom, hair and celtic metal genres are especially rife with them. Furthermore, some popular bands within the genre, like Black Sabbath and Kiss have also utilized imagery and lyrics with Satanic overtones which make many perceive metal as sinister and dangerous.
Heavy metal music may be disturbing to some listeners, but that does not equate to Satanism or harm for babies. While certain bands within this genre do have darker elements to their music, these instances tend to be rare and far between. Metal has often been associated with Satanism due to the moral panic in America during the 1980s when moral crusaders focused on issues related to Satanism and devil worship – this anxiety extended throughout society including music.
Unfortunately, mental health issues still affect how people view metal music today. When murders linked to metal are linked, people tend to view all metal as potentially satanic and occult; especially if the perpetrator himself was an avid metal fan; for instance the New York teenager who killed his grandmother was an avid Slipknot fan who specifically mentioned one song which featured lyrics with the phrase ‘Kill your mother, kill your father” as his favorite band.
Though some aspects of metal may be shocking, it would be inaccurate to lump all forms together. Ghost and Mayhem are black metal bands with dark themes; these groups do not belong to any cult and most listeners don’t follow every piece they hear religiously; nonetheless, PMRC witch hunters who protested Twisted Sister and Van Halen would likely become very concerned over Ghost, with its lead singer dressing like an anti-pope!
Heavy metal music may conjure images of violence, death and misogyny; yet contrary to stereotypes, metal fans tend to be happy and content in life (Lindsay Bishop of UCL). Metal subcultures also foster strong communities that help fans feel connected and supported.
Though metal music lyrics may appear to promote violence and antisocial behaviors, most research is correlational in nature and causal conclusions cannot be drawn.
It’s not all bad
There have been concerns that listening to heavy metal music with aggressive themes may increase aggression, antisocial behavior and suicidal thoughts in community and psychiatric populations; these risks are usually inferred based on correlational data, making causal inferences challenging. There have also been reports of positive effects on mood and wellbeing for metal fans; for instance, one study discovered that female fans who associated themselves with depressed peers experienced less depression themselves – this suggests depression doesn’t just come from music alone but is instead caused by various factors combining mental health conditions as well as what music they listen to.
However, it should be remembered that most studies on the relationship between metal and adolescent mental health are correlational; they fail to distinguish between people who already have pre-existing depression and those without. Thus more research with both nonclinical and clinical populations must be conducted in order to ascertain whether mental health acts as an moderating factor.
This narrative review seeks to assess and synthesize existing research on the risks and benefits associated with engaging with heavy metal music with aggressive themes. The review is grounded primarily in music psychology, specifically with regard to musical styles’ associations with adolescents’ behaviors; clinicians will find this review particularly helpful in understanding its complexities while making sound decisions when counseling clients (i.e. discouraging or encouraging listening) (Loxton et al. 2016).
At the core, it all boils down to personal choice and what an individual surrounds themselves with. Although music can have some influence over our behavior, such as a parent’s parenting style. In cases such as Columbine and Morne Harmse, other issues were ultimately to blame – not music itself – so instead of making assumptions that blame music for tragedies like Columbine and Morne Harmse we should take more time in reflecting upon what may have been contributing factors behind such tragedies; music cannot alone become the answer to violence!
It’s not all good
Music can have both positive and negative impacts on our minds and bodies, making it important for parents to realize not all music is suitable for children. Although it’s sometimes hard to know whether a certain genre resonates with a child’s tastes, exposing them to different styles may help foster an appreciation of all forms of music later.
Heavy metal music has long been associated with aggressive themes, but this can apply to other genres as well. Correlational research indicates a correlation between aggressive behavior and musical preferences and aggressive tendencies, though causal inferences can be difficult when fans and non-fans experiences are not controlled for. Furthermore, it is crucial to distinguish the effect of musical genres from their influence on personality or beliefs of an individual.
Note that babies’ auditory systems are still developing and that loud sounds may be damaging. This is particularly true of rock and metal music. Studies have shown that slow, soothing music can soothe newborns while loud, upbeat music may stimulate them – this applies across genres including classical.
Problematic stereotypes surrounding heavy metal music can create a negative view of it among society. Many associate the genre with Satanism and violence, which can have detrimental effects on children’s mental health. While certain songs within this genre do contain satanic lyrics, not all songs do; Krugersdorp school shooter Morne Harmse was known to enjoy listening to Metallica and Black Sabbath music; yet his family believed that it did not adversely impact him in any way.
Parents often blame music for violent behavior in their child; however, other factors could have more of an effect than just specific types of songs. Instead of blaming music as the sole reason behind an individual’s aggressive actions, parents should identify and treat its source instead of restricting what makes their child happy. Unfortunately some parents feel they need to censor their child’s music; it would only do more damage by taking away something which brings joy!
It’s not a crime
No one could argue with the powerful sounds and lyrics of metal music being thrilling and emotional; fans often feel empowered by this genre’s intense sounds while finding solace in its lyrics. Yet it is essential to remember that metal does not promote violence or aggression – contrary to popular belief! According to one study conducted during the 1980s involving adolescent metal fans they were happier and less depressed than their non-fan peers!
Metal can also provide students with opportunities to develop scientific thinking skills. By discussing allegations of violence and offensiveness by world-famous artists such as Cradle of Filth, Marilyn Manson, and Ozzy Osbourne – teachers can encourage their students to look into logical fallacies and research design issues related to claims that may or may not be credible.
Unfortunately, heavy metal music has an unfortunate track record of being unfairly judged and maligned with incoherent claims and correlations to violence, drug use, depression and suicide based on non-fan experiences rather than those from actual fans themselves. This often has disastrous repercussions for its image in society as a whole.
These findings highlight the significance of researchers understanding how music affects people and avoiding using correlational evidence as the basis for policy responses. If these responses prove successful, there is the risk they become self-perpetuating, leading to restrictions or bans against certain music genres.
Studies have demonstrated that non-metal listeners experience more anxiety from listening to heavy metal than from classical music or sitting silently. Such findings should be carefully evaluated to ascertain if there is any merit in making policy or therapeutic recommendations based on them. Ultimately, however, parents are responsible for making this choice on behalf of their children – if one prefers Wiggles more than Metallica is ultimately up to them!
It’s not the end of the world
As any parent knows, getting your newborn to sleep can be challenging. Many parents employ various techniques to soothe them such as driving them around in the car or placing them in a vibrating bouncer; however, not every technique works; sometimes babies are simply too cranky even for soothing classical music or soothing lullabies to work effectively. But one technique could prove surprising: rock and metal music!
Heavy metal music first began gaining traction during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and was widely adopted during this timeframe. Although its roots lie in blues and rock ‘n’ roll, heavy metal eventually developed a distinct punk rock sound as its popularity spread across different forms. Influential British bands included Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple as well as American groups Alice Cooper, Aerosmith Kiss as well as even punk rockers like Motorhead.
Although metal’s popularity had decreased throughout the 80s and early 1990s, its fame rebounded with bands such as Metallica, Linkin Park and Slayer becoming iconic names in music. At this point, metal no longer saw itself as “trash music,” yet was still considered controversial and morally dubious.
In the 2000s, metal music returned to its roots and established itself as an outspoken genre that appealed to younger listeners without being afraid of controversy. It quickly earned itself a place on popular music radio playlists across all generations and genres.
Metal music not only emphasizes loud and fast rhythms, but it’s also deeply political in its lyrics. Lyrics typically address issues like civil repression, economic inequality and exploitation, environmental degradation, nuclear warfare, political corruption, religious corruption and surveillance — themes often represented in band names like Anthrax, Nuclear Assault, Celtic Frost Sodom Death Angel.
No need to panic if your child chooses heavy metal as their music of choice; rather, let him or her find his or her passion and have discussions about its lyrics and music. But it is also important to remember that you are your children’s first role model and any choices made can have lasting repercussions for their development.