Finding Yourself in School: Identity and Music

Abstract

This article introduces the psychosocial construct of identity development and surveys the current best practices for identity formation in youth who are vulnerable to identity problems. Solutions reviewed include alternative schools; school-based prevention; school bonding; social and emotional learning; and a particular focus on the use of music. Literature in each of these areas is investigated and used to argue for the increased integration of therapeutic music education in schools to facilitate identity development.

Keywords

• education
• identity development
• youth at risk
• music education