The role of music in the lives of adolescent learners

Abstract

The aim of this small-sample study was to examine the potential of music as a resource used in PSCD to help adolescents develop emotional competencies and social skills. It explored the role of music in the lives of adolescents, as perceived by eight adolescents aged twelve to fourteen years. Qualitative data collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews was analysed using Thematic Analysis (TA) (Braun & Clarke, 2006), which yielded four themes with several sub-themes highlighting how music influences the psychosocial, emotions and cognitive aspects of the adolescents’ lives. The findings that emerged indicate that music is a necessity and that pervades adolescents’ everyday life. Music serves as an emotional regulatory strategy and a utility that promotes social relationships. Through the self-exploration and empowerment features of music, adolescents have the means to develop their identity and reveal their personality traits. The findings have significant implications not only for the PSCD educators, but for all the professionals working with adolescents during this crucial and sensitive phase of life development.