Dance: A Transformative Occupation

Abstract

Abstract Dance has long been acknowledged as a performance art capable of communicating a range of views, emotions and concepts. An ancient and popular activity, dance has existed to a greater or lesser extent in all societies and may be viewed as expressing the soul of the creating cultural group. While these views and sentiments about dance are well known, recognition of its other roles and functions claim less understanding and scholarly energy. Furthermore, few realize the extent of participation in most societies. Surveys documenting reasons for participation in dance in Aotearoa New Zealand included rationales relating to: physical fitness, education, religion, mental health, creativity, culture, social interactions, recreation, aesthetics, competition, therapy, expression and entertainment. Experience as a dance teacher for a diverse range of people in a variety of contexts over a twenty five year period has inspired the development of many questions about the reasons why people engage in dance. It has also led to theorizing about the meaning this occupation has for many people. One factor has remained constant, participation in dance has the power to transform lives and add meaning. Two specific questions relating to transformation through dance experiences have occupied the author for many years. They are: 1) can learning dance enhance social, emotional and intellectual knowledge and skills? And 2) what variables influence such learning? An investigation was conducted that examined transformation and meaning enhancement at micro interactional levels. The most significant outcome of this investigation was the development of Graham's Teaching Conditions Theory. This theory identifies and posits conditions that support the development of social, emotional and intellectual meanings in dance learning contexts. It may also have relevance for those engaged in the field of occupational science. This paper utilizes a Socratic approach as it reviews the qualitative, quantitative and theoretical results of an in‐depth investigation into the above questions. It will also conceptualize and relate these findings to occupational science.