The psychological functions of music in adolescence

Abstract

The article presents a theoretical model of the psychological functions of music in adolescence. The model is a categorization of the psychological goals that direct and give meaning to musical activities in everyday life. It is based on the developmental tasks of adolescence and finds support from a wide range of studies from several disciplines. It consists of four categories: interpersonal relationships, identity, agency, and emotional field, which represent different areas of psychological functions that can be supported by engaging in music. Through promoting the satisfaction of these psychological aims music contributes substantially to adolescent development and mental health. © 2004 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.