“No, I Guess it’s kind of Sensitive” - Communication patterns in a music listening group with older men

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Loneliness is a major wellbeing challenge for older men, linked to physical illnesses, depression and a heightened risk of suicide. Music listening is a potentially significant, although hitherto understudied resource in facilitating wellbeing amongst older men. This empirical study seeks to investigate how older men, at risk of loneliness, interact with each other, the female group leader and “with” music in a music listening group. It was presumed that the music would positively affect the moods of the participants, and that music would serve as a vehicle to stimulate memories and personal self-disclosure. Method: Eight men 64–86 years, with life challenges connected to loneliness, met 16 times to listen to self-chosen music and discuss self-defined topics. The group was led by a qualified music therapist. Follow-up individual interviews were made and a questionnaire were conducted, and used for triangulation. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify codes and themes. Results: The analysis resulted in three themes: choosing a positive mood; facts over self-disclosure; empathy and identification. Listening to, and discussing music were described as uplifting, stimulating and meaningful. However, the presumption that the music would serve as a vehicle for self-disclosure did not unfold as expected. Discussion: The communication between the participants and with the female group leader is discussed from a gender perspective. The article concludes that, specifically when working with (older) men, there is a dual need to recognise traditional, gendered socialisation patterns and norms, while simultaneously acknowledging that these norms might counteract other forms of connectedness.