by Lutendo (Lulu) Negota
My exploration into adolescent masculinity through music therapy was a profound journey, both professionally and personally. Over four weeks, I closely worked with four boys from a high school in Gauteng, South Africa, all facing disciplinary issues.
My interest in the subject of adolescent behaviour was sparked by a brief exposure while doing my PGCE training at a high school in my area of stay.
Through a qualitative study, I investigated how adolescent boys explored narratives of masculinity through group music therapy. During the research, I actively participated alongside them in creative activities such as improvisation, songwriting, rapping, drumming circles, and visual art, to explore their emotions and evolving identities as they journeyed into manhood.
Through our sessions, several key themes emerged that highlighted the therapeutic power of music. Music became their safe space where they could freely express themselves in an enjoyable, comfortable environment, fostering a sense of togetherness. It also provided a reflective space for deep insights and allowed them to challenge societal expectations of masculinity. Some discussions brought up challenging emotions, and I witnessed how this safe environment enabled the boys to express their feelings openly.
Witnessing their transformation was profoundly rewarding and reinforced for me the immense value of arts therapies, especially in breaking ground within South African contexts. In a society that often pressures boys to conform to hegemonic masculine ideals, our sessions provided a liberating space for them to explore and redefine masculinity on their own terms.
“our sessions provided a liberating space for them to explore and redefine masculinity on their own terms”
As a Black South African woman, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by Black men because of our country’s history. Men of colour in South Africa have historically had limited opportunities, particularly regarding their careers and life choices. Conducting group music therapy sessions with young boys of colour was deeply significant for me personally. One of the most heartwarming experiences during my time with these boys was hearing about their determination and strong desire to pursue their dreams. They shared stories about their hopes for the future, expressing a desire for a “satisfying, successful” career while also being good husbands and providers. Their resilience in challenging societal expectations of an ideal man was truly inspiring. I fondly remember one participant saying, “Here, it feels cool to talk about men.”
“the importance of cultural sensitivity, representation, and diversity in our work as arts therapists”
Becoming a music therapist was a dream I could not have imagined just a few years ago as a Black woman. Reflecting on my own journey and the lack of diverse representation in therapeutic spaces, I was deeply moved when one participant mentioned I was the first Black therapist he had met. It underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity, representation, and diversity in our work as arts therapists.
Approaching each session with sensitivity and understanding, I aimed to create an environment where the participants felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. Together, we explored complex themes of identity, societal pressures, hegemonic masculinity, and personal growth. During reflections, they challenged societal norms on male emotional expression, viewing feelings and emotional openness as integral to human experience. One participant expressed a desire to be emotionally open in front of his children, signalling a shift in mindset potentially influenced by our music therapy group experience. I observed how socialisation profoundly shaped boys’ experiences of masculinity, and through this, I saw how our therapy sessions were also influencing my own evolving views on masculinity. I found inspiration in the boys’ positive self-perceptions and diverse aspirations. Music therapy played a pivotal role in enabling them to express themselves in new ways and share their personal stories.
The literature review of my research highlighted a significant research gap in South Africa, emphasising the need for more studies on music therapy for young boys. This research is vital because music therapy offers unique benefits that traditional therapies may not always highlight. It enables boys to express emotions creatively, communicate better, and build resilience in ways other therapies might not. Music therapy stands out by revealing how creative expression can foster personal growth and identity formation. It’s especially relevant in South Africa, where cultural and socio-economic factors shape and affect therapeutic practices. I’m eager to expand this research. By involving a diverse range of participants, we can deepen our understanding of how music therapy supports young boys and contributes to more effective, culturally relevant practices in South Africa.
In conclusion, the journey through music therapy with these participants highlighted the transformative power of music and art in redefining masculinity. It reinforces the idea that through creativity and understanding
arts therapists can create spaces where boys feel valued and supported, transcending societal labels and pressures.
Assuming the role of conducting music therapy as a Black woman with adolescents of colour unintentionally highlighted evolving dynamics within my family and South Africa. Navigating this challenging process as a developing Black female researcher in music therapy has instilled pride and sparked contemplation on the significance of my role in the profession for future generations. This research journey has reaffirmed my positive regard for boys and men who have faced adversity. It has fuelled my personal growth and renewed my passion for working with boys, men and gender studies.
