Psychological Impacts of Competitive Dance: Understanding Mental Health and Team Dynamics Among Young Dancers

The purpose of the research was to investigate deeply into the psychological aspects of competitive dance and its influence on the mental well-being of young dancers. Competitive dance has grown significantly in popularity, fueled by reality television shows and social media platforms, creating a high-pressure environment for participants. This research investigated the unique stressors faced by young dancers including performance anxiety, body image concerns, and burnout, while also identifying coping strategies and the positive personal development fostered through dance. To uncover more information about the positive and negative effects of competition dance, the researcher focused the study on the following two research questions: Q1 What is the nature and extent of the psychological impact of competitive dance on the mental health of young dancers? Q2 How do team dynamics within dance groups contribute to or mitigate these psychological effects? Using a mixed-methods approach, this study was conducted with thirteen female dancers aged 10 to 13 from Mater Dei Catholic Elementary School. Data were collected through online surveys at multiple points in the competitive season and a group interview to capture participants' evolving experiences. The findings revealed that while competitive dance fosters self-confidence, joy, and resilience, it also introduces psychological challenges such as anxiety and stress, which are often amplified by coaches' expectations and peer competition. iv The research highlighted the critical role of social support from family, teammates, and coaches in mitigating these stressors. Strong team dynamics were shown to enhance mental well-being, while negative interactions within teams contributed to emotional strain. Based on these insights, the study offered recommendations for dance educators, coaches, and families to promote mental health awareness and emotional resilience in competitive dance environments. This thesis contributed to the ongoing conversation about mental health in the performing arts, emphasizing the importance of balancing high performance with well-being. By fostering supportive environments and integrating mental health strategies, the dance community could enhance both the performance and personal growth of young dancers, ensuring sustainable and fulfilling careers.