Making Dance Research Visible: A Project Proposal of Applying Sports Psychology to the Dance Field

This study investigates the integration of sports psychology into the dance field, introducing a research project plan emphasizing self-criticism and self-compassion as factors of mental health among dance conservatory students in the Czech Republic. The human body, as a medium of expression and experience, plays a pivotal role in both psychology and dance, yet remains underexplored in psychological research. By examining correlations, moderations and multiple regression between self-criticism, self-compassion, and well-being, alongside variables such as fear of self-compassion, fear of performance failure, and social physique anxiety, the study proposes to bridge this interdisciplinary gap. The author further advocates for greater visibility and accessibility of scientific knowledge to both the academic community and the general public, emphasizing the ethical obligation of researchers to communicate the significance and societal relevance of their work. Ultimately, this project proposal seeks to enhance mental health support within dance education and professional practice, laying the groundwork for future interventions aimed at fostering self-compassion among dancers.