FEMALE METAL FANS AND THE PERCEIVED POSITIVE EFFECTS OF METAL MUSIC

Abstract

Despite increasing literature that confirms the therapeutic benefits of music, metal music is still stigmatized as sexist, masculine, and detrimental to its fans. Psychology researchers have generally focused on trying to identify the negative effects of metal music (Snell & Hodgetts, 2007), and have succeeded in finding links between metal music and aggression (Rubin, West, & Mitchell, 2001) and suicide (Lacourse, Claes, & Villeneuve, 2001) for example. Most of the research has focused on male fans as well, with little research from the perspective of female metal fans and musicians (Diehl, 2013). Hence, we conducted a qualitative study focused on female metal fans perceived positive effects of metal music for its female fans. An online survey, distributed through social media, was completed by a purposeful sample of 224 female participants (aged 18-65+) from around the world who described critical incidents specific to metal music and its positive impact in their lives. Several key themes were identified through analyses: (a) creation and awareness of identity, (b) forging and strengthening relationship, (c) provision of life experience and knowledge; and (d) helping with emotions. Implications for counselling practice and recommendations for future research are made.