Music has always been an integral part of culture. It is a powerful tool that can be used to influence people’s emotions and actions. Teenagers are especially susceptible to the effects of music.
Studies have shown that music can cause teenagers to experience a range of emotions, from happiness and excitement to sadness and anger. Here are some ways in which music can influence teenagers’ emotions and actions.
Peer Approval
One of the main reasons why teenagers listen to music is to fit in with their peers. They want to be seen as cool and popular and listening to the same music as their friends is one way to do this. This need for approval can lead teenagers to make poor decisions, such as taking drugs or engaging in risky behavior, if they think it will make them more accepted by their peers.
Mood Changes
Music can also have a big impact on a teenager’s mood. Upbeat, happy songs can lift their spirits and make them feel more positive, while sad songs can cause them to feel down and depressed. This is why it’s important for parents to be aware of the type of music their teenagers are listening to.
If you notice your teen seems to be in a bad mood more often than usual, or if they’re suddenly unhappy with their life, it could be due to the music they’re listening to.
Influence on Behavior
The lyrics of some songs can also influence a teenager’s behavior. For example, songs that glorify violence or drug use can make these activities seem more acceptable to teenagers. On the other hand, songs with positive messages can encourage teens to make good choices in their lives.
Using Music to Connect
Despite the potential risks, music can also be a great way to connect with a teenager. If you share the same taste in music, you can bond over your favorite bands and songs. You can also use music to start conversations about important topics, such as drug use or bullying.
And if you’re concerned about the type of music your teenager is listening to, you can use it as an opportunity to open up a dialogue about why you think it’s harmful and what they can do instead.
The Ability to Focus
Music also helps teenagers to focus on school work or any task they need to do. It can be a great way to study for exams or get through a difficult project. If your teenager is struggling to focus on their work, suggest they try listening to music. It could make all the difference in their ability to succeed.
Conclusion
Music is a powerful tool that can have a big impact on teenagers’ emotions and actions. Parents need to be aware of the music their teenagers are listening to and how it might be affecting them. And while there are some risks associated with teenage music consumption, there are also many benefits. Used wisely, music can be a great way to connect with your teenager and promote positive behavior.
Eric Dalius is The Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, a music and content discovery platform designed to maximize artist discovery and optimize fan relationships. Additionally, he runs the weekly podcast “FULLSPEED,” featuring interviews with cutting-edge entrepreneurs. As the founder of the “Eric Dalius Foundation,” he provides four scholarships for US students. Keep up with Eric on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Entrepreneur.com.