Self-Esteem and Life Satisfaction in Musicians and General Population

Abstract

Although music is positively related to a higher level of wellbeing, within the population group who dedicate themselves to this discipline professionally the reality is quite different. A total of 383 adults (63.2% female) [18-51 years old (M=31.6; SD=12)] participated in the study. The main objective of this study is to compare the differences in levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction among musicians to those of a sample of the general adult population. The results show that levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction are correlated, although this relationship differs when compared between musicians and the general population. Levels of self-esteem are lower among younger musicians. A stance in favor of a better care of professional musicians is expressed.