Mental Health Implications of (Mal-)Adaptive Approaches to Leisure Music Engagement: The Role of Motivation and Self-Criticism
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background/Objective: The relationship of music engagement with health and well-being has gained increasing academic interest over the past decades, pointing to mostly beneficial associations. However, recent research indicates a more complex relationship emphasizing the relevance of exploring how and why people engage with music. This study therefore aimed to investigate a) the association between self-determined motivation for leisure music engagement and mental health, and b) the role of self-criticism as a potential underlying mechanism. Method: 198 hobby musicians completed an online survey on their self-determination in motivation to make music, depression, anxiety, and stress as well as self-criticism. Results: Structural equation models showed that controlled motivation (more external reasons) positively predicted depression, stress, and self-criticism but not anxiety. Further, results provided evidence for a full mediation of the association between controlled motivation and depression, anxiety, and stress via self-criticism. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of the motivational approach in music engagement and self-critical processes indicating potentially harmful effects on mental health. Practical implications include encouraging autonomy-supportive conditions and self-compassion in music-based and general mental health interventions. Future research should further investigate individual and situational determinants and their interaction in music engagement and mental health.
Source: Psychology of Music
Language: English
Topic: Music Therapy and Health
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,650
OpenAlex ID: W4389748011