Jumping back into my blog a few weeks ago (the one about social media), I want to continue on this path of identity.
One area that I’m particularly interested in is how (as musicians) our identity shifts between other peoples’ perception of ourselves and who we actually are. I know that’s sounds pretty intense!
One psychological theory I draw upon in some clinical or academic work is Social Identity Theory as it offers a useful framework for understanding how musicians might shift between their performer identity and their everyday selves. This theory posits that individuals categorise themselves and others into various social groups, each with distinct norms, values, and behaviours. A musician, for example, belongs to a ‘performance’ or ‘artist’ type group when on stage but also to other social identities when offstage, such as family or peer groups. The transition between these identities can be seamless or difficult, depending on several factors such as the level of identification with each role, audience expectations, and personal coping mechanisms. It can also be hindered massively by our self-esteem and how we are viewed by others.
For many musicians, the stage persona is a carefully curated identity, where we must conform to the expectations of the audience or even ethos of the music. In this role, we can present ourselves as confident, charismatic, vulnerable or even technically proficient, which may not always align with our true or "normal" selves (whatever this means). The act of shifting from this heightened, often idealised identity back to our everyday life can create what is known as ‘cognitive dissonance’, which can lead to psychological distress. For example, the stark contrast between the acclaim and validation received while performing and the potential loneliness or lack of recognition in everyday life can exacerbate feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, or even depression. It’s a difficult transition to make on a regular basis (more so for those of us with wounds or have neuro-differences). It’s this dissonance that can prompt us to use ‘stuff’ to glue us together.
Conversely, this identity shift can also have positive effects on mental health. Performing allows us to express ourselves creatively and emotionally, providing an outlet for stress and a break from our everyday concerns. The validation and sense of belonging derived from being part of a music community can enhance our self-esteem and provide a supportive network. Additionally, the clear distinction between the performance identity and the everyday self can also serve as a protective barrier, enabling us to compartmentalise stressors associated with public personas or fan/audience projections, potentially preserving mental well-being when offstage.
One big struggle I often see is when the boundaries between these identities. If we become overly identified with our performer identity, we might struggle to disconnect from the pressures of constant public scrutiny, leading to burnout, exhaustion, or mental health issues. On the other hand, failure to embrace this performer identity fully might result in performance anxiety or other internal struggles as we may feel inadequate or unprepared to meet the demands of the audience etc. Ultimately, how we navigate this continual shift can either help or hinder our psychology, even more so if we have old wounds!
From a psychological and psychotherapeutic position I would be surprised if some of these elements were not apparent in the recent sad events in the media surrounding musicians’ mental health. I was asked to do the usual press quote in this area but found it quite crass and insensitive. In a way it made me reflect on whether this kind of ‘expert opinion’ actually helps to contribute to the inner struggles of identity and objectification we see in the industry (see my pure music vs commodified musicking continuum).
As always, It’s a complex thing and a common factor in the peer groups. If you resonate, then think about joining one of the Tonic Rider Peer Support Groups.
Adam Ficek hosts a monthly show 'Tonic Music' on Totally Wired Radio, where he talks to various guests about music and mental health. You can listen again to any of the previous show on the Tonic Music Mixcloud page.
