Does Dance Expertise Enhance Sensitivity? A Comparative Study

Abstract

The overall aim was to study the impact of dance expertise in relation to emotional expressivity and emotional sensitivity, by comparing dance experts and nonexperts. The results are based on a survey answered by 120 individuals, consisting of the Berkeley Emotional Expressivity Questionnaire (BEQ) and the Emotional Sensitivity Questionnaire (ESS). Dance experts in comparison to nonexperts scored higher on ESS, more specifically, other-directed sensitivity, that is, the positive interpersonal sensitivity subscale. No significant differences were obtained on negative egocentric sensitivity, the other subscale of ESS, and neither regarding emotional expressivity. However, it was found that those with more frequent dance habits scored higher on the Impulse Strength subscale of the BEQ. Our findings point out the relationship between dance and our ability to perceive emotions, which could have interesting educational and clinical implications. Lastly, we discuss current and future perspectives on the topic.