The Evolution of Modern Pop Music in Incorporating and Normalizing Conversations About Mental Health

Yihan Zhang

doi:10.54691/e0wqnk66

Authors

Yihan Zhang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54691/e0wqnk66

Keywords:

Attribution Bias, Social Comparison, Meritocracy, Psychological Stress.

Abstract

In the recent years, pop music has become more than just entertainment. Pop music has become a major vehicle for talking about mental health. This essay explores how recent pop artists have reoriented their songs to include subjects like anxiety, depression, and emotional problems. This study shows that through lyrics, artist insights, and fan reactions, pop music helps open up and normalize discussions around mental health. From the early 2010s, there have been increasing numbers of artists speaking candidly about their emotions and experiences with mental illness. This not only reflects changes in society but also influences how individuals perceive these issues. This paper also examines how artists utilize their public reputation to raise awareness, illustrating that they are both sharing personal experiences and encouraging others to voice their opinions. Finally, this research proves that pop music is also a successful method of reducing stigma around mental illness and encouraging positive social change.

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