The Role of Social Support in Dance Talent Development

Abstract

This multiple case study aims to answer the main research question, "How well are exceptionally talented Finnish and Singaporean dance students supported by significant individuals at different phases of the students' development?" The exceptionally talented students aged 16 to 22 were enrolled in their national dance institutionsthe Finnish National Opera Ballet School and the Singapore Dance Theatre. Perspectives of social support were elicited from 13 participants-dance students (n = 4), teachers (n = 6), parents (n = 2), and one sibling. Data were documents, letters, interviews, and observation field notes collected over 2 years. The themes that emerged from the deductive and inductive analysis-being there, sharing, and knowing-illustrated the types of support from families, peers, and teachers that contributed to the students' development. While making cross-cultural comparisons, reflections about mindset, self-efficacy, and pedagogical practices are also discussed. A conclusion offers educational implications and directions for future research.Research on how students thrive on social support is important. It provides insights for counselors, educators, and parents into how students can capitalize on positive relationships with significant individuals to excel. Research findings across a range of domains such as classical music (e.

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“…Although there is not a widely accepted definition of social support, support can be categorized by type. Support can be grouped as emotional, informational or instrumental (Chua, 2015). An example of emotional support can be parents attending their child's dance performances.…”

“…Informational support can be described as advice or guidance given to the student. An example of instrumental support is providing money or transportation for dance students to accommodate their dance training (Chua, 2015). Gaining support from various sources makes a difference in development of a dancer.…”

“…Receiving support from teachers, mentors, parents, and financial resources are a key element to talent development. Bloom, according to Chua (2015) observed that parents and teachers play critical roles in the phases of talent development. Male adolescent dancers have communicated that their mothers have been the most supportive individuals of their dancing (Risner, 2014).…”

“…Dance teachers are as important to dance students as sport coaches are to athletes (Van Rossum, 2004). Development of talent is a tribute of the support of many people and communities (Chua, 2015). Students thrive on social support.…”

“…The example of verbal persuasion or encouragement is a form of emotional support. When the encouragement comes from a trusted source such as a teacher, this can lead to increased beliefs in the student's capabilities (Chua, 2015). For dancers, having repetitive rehearsals, clear goals, and receiving feedback from their instructors or choreographers enhances their confidence (Chua, 2013).…”