Another study says that metal music is good for your mental health

With some people scapegoating metal for the mass shooting in Dayton, it’s time to bring out a new study that metal is actually good for your mental health. In other words, the exact opposite of what some of these people are saying.

This comes from Cardiff Metropolitan University researcher Nick Perham.

“Fans who were made angry and then listened to heavy metal music did not increase their anger but increased their positive emotions suggests that listening to extreme music represents a healthy and functional way of processing anger.

“[Metal] fans tend to be more open to new experiences, which manifests itself in preferring music that is intense, complex, and unconventional, alongside a negative attitude towards institutional authority. Some do have lower levels of self-esteem, however, and a need for uniqueness. One might conclude that this and other negative behaviours are the result of listening to heavy metal, but the same research suggests that it may be that listening to the music is cathartic.”

There are a couple of other things from the study that are worth noting.

“Heavy metal can promote scientific thinking but alas not just by listening to it. Educators can promote scientific thinking by posing claims such as listening to certain genres of music is associated with violent thinking. By examining the aforementioned accusations of violence and offence – which involved world-famous artists like Cradle of Filth, Ozzy Osbourne, and Marilyn Manson – students can engage in scientific thinking, exploring logical fallacies, research design issues, and thinking biases.”

There. Now do yourself a favour and go listen to some SLAYER.

(Via MetalSucks)