Essentials of Dance Psychology

The topic of sport psychology is hardly new-but Essentials of Dance Psychology applies it to dance in a way that sets it apart from all other sport psychology texts available to dance students, instructors, and professionals.

Through Essentials of Dance Psychology, readers will come to understand why dancers think and behave as they do and how to design healthy, creative dance environments that lead to both well-being and optimal performance.

The book is built on a foundation of evidence from dance and sport psychology research, with applied experiences used as examples throughout. Where appropriate, evidence from other areas of psychology-for example, cognitive behavioral therapy-is used. A thorough coverage of topics relevant to dancers, teachers, and others working to support dancers is included, making the book suitable for one slightly longer course or two short courses in introductory dance psychology.

The book is organized into four parts. Part I delves into dancers’ individual differences, examining how personality, perfectionism, self-esteem, self-confidence, and anxiety factor into performance and well-being. Part II explores topics related to dance-specific characteristics such as motivation, attentional focus, and creativity. In part III, readers learn about a range of psychological skills, including mindfulness, goal setting, self-regulation, and imagery. Part IV examines topics related to dance environments and challenges, zeroing in on the social aspects of teaching and learning dance, the challenges of talent identification and development, injuries, body image, and disordered eating.

Student-friendly textbook features in each chapter include the following:

• Relevant definitions
• A case study that shows how the chapter’s topics can be expressed or experienced in practice
• One or more Get Practical exercises, which prompt readers to apply or reflect on the chapter’s concepts (These exercises come with either downloadable worksheets or audio, delivered through HKPropel Access.)
• A roundup of further research needed in each content area, which can inspire research projects for students and professionals alike
• Key points to reinforce the learning, with particular emphasis on applications