compassion in dance and sport
Over the past decade, dance and sports research has explored the benefits of compassion (i.e., treating the self and others with kindness, patience, and understanding). It is known to improve both performance and mental health. However, research has not yet explored the similarities and differences between how compassion relates to wellbeing and performance in these two contexts.
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By taking part in this research, participants will have the opportunity to find out or enhance their understanding about compassion, as well as to contribute their valuable experiences in dance or sport about performance and mental health. The participants will also help towards the development of new psychological resources and learning materials for mental health and wellbeing for amateurs and professionals, with the eventual aim to inform future practice and policy within dance and sport contexts.
Study Team
Prof. Jennifer Cumming – j.cumming@bham.ac.uk
Emma Morgan (dance) - exm026@student.bham.ac.uk
Fiona J. Clarke (sport) - f.j.clarke@bham.ac.uk
Participant information
We would like to invite you to take part in our study Compassion in Dance and Sport, which has been approved by the University of Birmingham Ethics Committee.
What is the study about?
Dance and sport participation has the potential to protect from mental health difficulties and may also promote mental wellbeing. However, many dancers and athletes experience mental health difficulties and poor wellbeing. Therefore, we are interested in understanding what factors contribute to mental health in these populations. The findings may have important implications for how we promote wellbeing in dance and sport.
If you decide to participate in our study, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire pack to be filled out in person or online. This would take approximately 30 minutes to complete. Before this, you will be asked questions regarding your background in dance or sport.
By participating in this study, you are also agreeing that your results may be used for scientific purposes, including publication in scientific journals, so long as your confidentiality is maintained.
There are minimal risks associated with participation in this research. If you feel any distress from participating in the study, there are a number of support resources available. For immediate support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or call NHS mental health services on 111. For non-emergencies, visit https://www.elefriends.org.uk/for resources and a supportive online community. There are also a number of NHS recommended apps for managing wellbeing, such as Catch It or Cove.
Who can take part?
We are recruiting male and female dancers and athletes aged 18-60, currently participating in the UK (i.e., injury free). All participants who complete the questionnaire pack will be entered into a prize draw. Winning prize amounts will be an online voucher between £10 and £50. University of Birmingham students may be eligible to earn course credit for participation.
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How can I take part?
If you would like to participate in our study, you will be provided with a link to the online questionnaire or a paper copy to complete in person.
Your participation in this study is entirely voluntary and you are able to withdraw at any point until two weeks after completing the questionnaire pack. If you wish to withdraw then please contact Emma Morgan (dance) or Fiona Clarke (sport) via the contact details below. Withdrawal will not have any impact on you. If you choose to withdraw then your data will be destroyed and not be included in the study, and your email address will not be included in the prize draw.
Results of the study
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A summary of the results and findings will be made available following completion of the study. If you would like a copy of this then please opt in by providing your email address on the consent form.
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What if I have a problem or concern?
If you have a concern about any aspect of this study, please speak with Prof Jennifer Cumming (Project Supervisor). Her contact details are: J.Cumming@Bham.ac.uk / 0121 414 2877.
Who has reviewed this project?
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This project was reviewed by the University of Birmingham’s Ethics Committee.
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Further information
If you have any concerns or wish to make a complaint about this research, please contact:
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University of Birmingham Research Ethics Team – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/environment-culture/research-integrity/research-ethics
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Principal Investigator: Prof. Jennifer Cumming – j.cumming@bham.ac.uk
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Data Protection Team at the University of Birmingham – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/university/leadership/governance/policies-regs/data-protection
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Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) – www.ico.org.uk/concerns
Sources of Support
If you find any of the survey content distressing or need support, the following resources are available:
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Own GP – Speak to your doctor for guidance and support.
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Birmingham Healthy Minds (NHS Mental Health Service) – Local support for Birmingham residents.
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Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust – bsmhft.nhs.uk
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Samaritans – 24/7 confidential support: Call 116 123, Email joe@samaritans.org, Visit www.samaritans.org
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Mind – Mental health support: Call 0300 123 3393, Text 86463, Visit www.mind.org.uk
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SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258 for immediate support.