Studies that Confirm the Obvious, Metal Edition

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A study out of the University of Westminster on contemporary metal music concluded that this group is made up of (mostly) males who aren't exactly the most confident people out there:
Those with a strong preference for metal “were also more likely to have lower self-esteem,” the researchers write. They speculate this style of music “allows for a purge of negative feelings,” producing a catharsis that may “help boost self-worth.”
The study focuses on thrash metal today, but heavy metal has always been a distinct subculture, dating back to its birth in working-class Britain. Fans have for decades used the music as a release of frustration and a way to build bonds with others who similarly feel outside the norms of society. At least it was like that when I was a boy.  

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