American researchers from Christian Brigham Young University analyzed the lyrics of popular songs touching on romance and relationships. They found that in the vast majority of cases, the heroes of such compositions prove to be unreliable partners. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Psychology of Music (POM).
Scientists examined 87 musical pieces included in Billboard music magazine’s “Top 100 Songs of 2019” list. These included tracks like “Lucid Dreams” by Juice WRLD and “Sunflower” by rapper Post Malone.
Texts expressing insecurity, desire for a partner, self-doubt, or inability to exist or function without one’s partner (i.e., “clingy” behavior) were categorized as anxious attachment (e.g., “I won’t let you forget me.”). On the other hand, lyrics that included instructions for partners to leave, run away from their partners, or distrust their partners were labeled avoidant attachment (e.g., “Girl, you’re just running away”).
Songs containing expressions of anxious attachment and avoidant attachment were labeled as anxious-avoidant attachment.
Finally, songs that contained minimal or no anxious or avoidant language and also described positive romantic relationships or activities were classified as secure attachment (e.g., “We can do anything we set our minds to / My love is yours if you’re ready”).
Meanwhile, songs that revolved around romance but did not provide enough context to determine attachment style were labeled neutral.
Statistical analysis showed that 86.2% of the songs showed insecure attachment. In the texts, avoidant attachment predominates (33.33%), followed by anxious attachment (27.59%) and then anxious-avoidant attachment (25.29%). Only a small portion of the songs reflected the secure attachment style (8.05%), and five tracks were rated neutral (5.75%).
Researchers say examples of insecure attachment gleaned from pop music may affect young people’s romantic expectations and relationships.
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