Date

12-4-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Laura Rolen

Keywords

Developmental psychology, phenomenology, phenomena, music, Christian music, Qualitative study, transcendental, transformational

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Music is one of the most fundamental expressions of art, communication, and worship, linking to the conscience and personalities across cultures. Music provides a pathway to human emotions where music manifests as a therapeutic component for psychosomatic change. Furthermore, Christian music has not been explored as a therapeutic component for individuals struggling with mental health or cognitive challenges. The purpose of this study was to investigate how Christian music may serve as a therapeutic component of wellbeing in everyday lives of individuals. Using a transcendental phenomenological approach, this study investigated the lived experiences of 10 individuals who have experienced Christian music as a large component of their lives and how the music influenced their wellbeing. The results of the study found five composite themes. Participants reported that early musical influences affected their engagement with Christian music and contributed to personal transformation. Many also indicated that lyrical content and messaging played a role in this transformation. Participants described therapeutic applications of Christian music in their lives as well as the lives of others. Finally, participants emphasized that current technological accessibility and digital sharing facilitated the ease and use in sharing Christian music with others. These themes suggest that Christian music possesses transformative and therapeutic potential, influencing the lives of 10 participants and those closely connected to them.

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