First Advisor

Ray Schwartz

First Committee Member

Megan Odom

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Document Type

Thesis

Date Created

12-1-2024

Department

College of Performing and Visual Arts, Theatre Arts and Dance, Theatre Arts and Dance Student Work

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the minds of dance students about the stress they experienced as a result of their academic schedules and extracurriculars. The following research questions informed this study:

Q1 Does incorporating dance into the academic schedule lower stress in high school students?

Q2 In what mental state are students before and after taking dance class?

Q3 Does dance provide mental health benefits for high school students?

Student stress was evaluated before the study using a questionnaire as well as before and after each dance class through surveys. Eighteen students participated in a group interview at the conclusion of the six-week study to discuss how dance affected their mental health and the benefits of including dance in the academic schedule. Quantitative and qualitative data obtained from this study suggested that dance in the academic schedule reduced stress in high school students.

Abstract Format

html

Disciplines

Dance

Keywords

dance; high school students; stress; mental health

Language

English

Extent

69 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author

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