CBT structures and strategies in the lyrics of Kacey Musgraves

Abstract

ABSTRACT The lyrics of several Kacey Musgraves songs fit many of the criteria for usefulness in Poetry Therapy while employing many of the same structures and strategies found in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Thus, they provide an invaluable tool for considering the therapeutic value of poetry in the literature classroom, and, potentially, for application in the clinical setting. Musgraves’ lyrics reflect universal experience and emotion, use clear language, and offer hope while dealing realistically with suffering. Several of her songs written in second person specifically follow a model similar to that of CBT. These songs help the listener to identify and reflect on the cognitive distortions behind anxiety and depression. They use metaphors to help listeners achieve greater awareness of mental processes and emotional states. Finally, they correct cognitive distortions and provide alternate metaphors that encourage more adaptive thinking and actions.