PSYCHOLOGICAL CORRELATES OF DANCE INJURIES

This study investigates stress and self-esteem as possible psychological correlates of dance injuries. The subjects were 39 female university students majoring in dance. Four assessments were made of stress and self-esteem over an 8-month period. Injury records were maintained continuously by the subjects during this time period. A strong correlation was found between psychological stress and total duration of injury. As negative stress increased, so did duration of injury. On the other hand, as positive stress increased, the duration of injury decreased. No significant relationship was found between self-esteem and total duration of injury. In order to assess the possibility of a causal relationship between stress and duration of injury in dance, an experimental design is needed in future research. The present study emphasizes the need to consider psychological aspects of the injury process. The authors recommend that dancers, educators, and medical practitioners enhance their awareness of the roles of stress and stress-management strategies for dancers' health and performance.