When most people think of music, the first thing that comes to mind is probably enjoyment. Whether it’s listening to your favorite song on the way to work or going to a concert to see your favorite band, music typically brings happiness and pleasure.
However, you may not know that music can also be used as a tool for conflict resolution.
This blog post will explore the link between music and conflict resolution. We’ll discuss how music can be used to calm emotions and create a peaceful environment and look at case studies of how music has been used effectively to resolve conflicts.
Exploring the Link between Music and Conflict Resolution
Conflict is an inevitable part of human life.
From the time we are born, we’re constantly interacting with others and trying to figure out our place in the world.
As we grow older, conflicts become more complex and can involve multiple people or groups. It’s not always easy to resolve conflicts, but some things can help– and music is one of them!
It has a powerful effect on the brain. It can change our mood, help us relax, and boost our energy levels. We’re more likely to be open to compromise and negotiation when feeling calm and relaxed.
Here’s how music helps with conflict resolution:
1. It Helps Build Trust and Cooperation between People
Music helps alleviate anxiety and stress, which can lead to positive social interactions. It’s a therapeutic tool that can be used strategically and meaningfully to address conflict and provide common ground for people seeking reconciliation with past events. As a result, people feel more connected to each other and less alone.
For instance, in Northern Ireland, the Belfast Music Therapy Trust used music to help children who had been affected by violence. It allowed them to express their feelings and heal from trauma.
2. It Can Break Down Social Barriers
Music helps create a sense of shared identity and purpose. It can bring people from different social groups together and help them see each other as human beings with common interests and goals.
For example, in the Balkans, musicians from Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia came together to form a musical group called Mostar Sevdah Reunion. The group performed traditional songs from all three cultures, using music to help break down barriers between the groups and promote understanding and respect.
3. It Can Be Used as a Tool for Mediation and Negotiation
Music can help achieve successful negotiations by helping to resolve disputes between individuals or groups. It can create a sense of understanding and respect between parties, enabling them to reach a compromise.
Final Words
The link between music and conflict resolution is apparent. Music can be used to calm emotions, create a sense of community, and promote healing. In times of conflict, music can effectively bring people together and help resolve disputes.
By understanding and utilizing the power of music, we can help resolve conflicts in a more effective and peaceful way. It can be a powerful force for good in the world when used correctly.
Eric Dalius is The Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, a music and content discovery platform designed to maximize artist discovery and optimize fan relationships.Along with his work at MuzicSwipe, he also conducts in-depth interviews with prominent entrepreneurs on his weekly podcast “FULLSPEED.” Eric also dedicates himself to educational initiatives through the “Eric Dalius Foundation,” which provides four scholarships to US-based students. Keep track of Eric’s endeavors on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn,YouTube, Instagram, and Entrepreneur.com.