'I'm in the mood for you' : an interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experience of mood regulation through music in adolescents

Abstract

This study explores the lived experience of the perceived effects of music on mood regulation of 8 adolescents. Qualitative data, based on in-depth interviews, were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach (Smith, Flowers, & Larkin, 2010). The themes elicited indicate that music is something that the participants cannot live without. The participants said that music helps them to understand themselves and what they are going through and also helps them process their emotions and moods. Many of the participants also revealed that music gives them a sense of empowerment. Importance was given to needing time to use music for mood regulation and an emphasis was done on to how music affects people differently. Furthermore, some participants mentioned the use of music to create a positive spiritual experience and also talked about how music impacts their beliefs on love and sex. The results have significant practice implications for adolescents, parents, and professionals working with adolescents. Suggestions for future research were also made.