The Relationship between At-Risk Teens, Music and Social Support
Teenagers face a number of risks every day which can lead to serious mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, if not addressed. A healthy social environment that provides stability, security, structure and support is essential in helping young people cope with these risks. Music can be one of the most powerful tools to provide this social support, although it is often overlooked as a way to prevent at-risk behaviors among teenagers.
Studies have shown that music has a direct link to feelings of social support. It can provide a sense of belonging and connectedness by fostering a shared identity among listeners. It can also provide listeners with a sense of comfort, security and reassurances that they are not alone in their struggles. As a result, music can create an environment where teens to feel comfortable being themselves, without fear of judgement or ridicule.
Music is often seen as a way to escape the pressures and stresses of everyday life. However, it can also serve a greater purpose by allowing teens to express their emotions and thoughts, which can help them cope with any negative events that may have occurred. This can be particularly beneficial for teenagers who are at risk for developing mental health issues, as discussing problems openly with family and friends can be difficult or uncomfortable. Music can offer an outlet where teenagers can safely express their deepest emotions, helping them to avoid potential substance abuse or other risk-taking behaviors.
The positive effects of music on mental health can also be seen in its ability to lift moods and reduce stress levels. A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania found that listening to music can reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and also lead to an increase in happiness and motivation. Music can also be used as a form of relaxation and distraction. This can allow teenagers to manage the stressful events and situations that they may encounter in order to reduce the risk of developing mental health issues.
Finally, music can be used to create social bonds between teens and their peers. By discussing and sharing music, teens can build trusting relationships with one another, which can help them develop a stronger sense of social support. It can also provide an additional channel for teens to receive positive reinforcement from their peers. This can be comforting for teenagers who may not receive enough positive feedback from other sources.
Music is an important tool for providing social support for teenagers. While it can easily be used to escape from the pressures of everyday life, it can also be used to explore and address the more serious issues that teens face. By creating an environment where teens can safely express their emotions and build positive relationships with their peers, music can provide the social support that teens need to reduce the risk of developing mental health issues.
