new study shows that '80s metalheads turned out much better than expected

A study recently published in the journal Self and Identity concludes that contrary to 1980s research, young metal fans in the 80s did not roundly suffer poor developmental outcomes. In fact, it turns out that 1980s metalheads "were significantly happier in their youth, and better adjusted currently."

Titled Three Decades Later: The Life Experiences and Mid-Life Functioning of 1980s Heavy Metal Groupies, Musicians, and Fans, the study examined 377 "heavy metal groupies, musicians, and fans at middle age" using "snowball sampling" from Facebook.

Here's the good news:


Don't start pumping your child's ears with Slayer or The Black Dahlia Murder just yet, however, as Pacific Standard does highlight one caveat: The study was composed of individuals who were "relatively high functioning" and volunteered to participate. This would of course likely eliminate anyone who ultimately fell victim to drug addiction, suicide, or any other negative outcomes of "a dark lifestyle."

Fortunately, research team leader and Humboldt State University psychologist Tasha Howe reports that "metalheads in general were not significantly more likely to attempt suicide or have sex at earlier ages than other youth. Nor were they more likely to miss work due to physical or mental health problems as adults."

See, we're not all going to grow up to be total losers!