Medical Mysteries of Music

Metal Helps People Deal with Mortality. It’s Science!

If you’re into metal, chances are you have a different view of death than other music fans. Metal, says science, helps people come to terms with their own mortality. From The Independent:

According to a study in the Journal of Psychology of Popular Media, the sense of identity that the death-themed music creates gives listeners meaning to their lives.

In turn, this feeling helps fans deal with the concept of their own mortality. Yet the researchers found the music does not help those who do not like it.

The psychologist’s findings support a psychological idea called “terror management theory” (TMT). According to TMT, cultural values help people manage the prospect of their own death by providing life with value and purpose.

“Heavy metal music is often associated with death and dying by non-fans, whereas members of this subculture report that listening to metal music is their escape from depression and even helpful against death-related thoughts,” the psychologists wrote.

“Metal music can be seen as cultural good for fans and thereby can form part of their social identity.”

In other words, metal is good for your mental health and overall wellbeing. Read the whole article here.

 

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 40276 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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