People may argue that rap music is sending youth in the wrong direction with the sexual and violent lyrics. But, not many know that hip hop/rap music is being used as a therapeutic practice for "high-risk clients." It's called Hip Hop Social Work. It may seem like hip hop and social work wouldn't go together at all, but Lauren Collins, a therapist who has an MSW from Hunter College's Graduate School of Social Work. Collins says, "Hip hop provides a comfortable forum for honest self-examination while helping participants find their way along the path to personal growth." Even though hip hop and rap music is said to be ruining young people's minds and lifestyles, it's also helping people who need that way of expression.
The Seattle Times tells how Fans turn away from rap's violence. Are record sales declining because the public is tired of nasty lyrics? It's possible that parents are tired of their children listening rhymes that make no sense but to set them on the wrong path. Also, how many times can you rap about drugs before it gets old?
Many social disturbings are being blamed on rappers and their songs, as well. Jason Whitlock wrote on AOL that the disruption at the NBA All-Star Game in Las Vegas should give the blame to "hip hop hoodlums". He proceeded to say that the game should be moved out of country for a couple years, to keep the "hoodlums" out and let them find another gathering to ruin. David Banner, a famous rapper with the hit "Like a Pimp," argues that this is the type of music America wants to hear. Should we allow that to be an excuse: America wants to hear about cocaine, weed, sexual addictions, alcohol, and killings. Or is it just that young Americans are hearing it only because that's what "makes them cool."
