Researchers have led a new study highlighting widespread risk factors for abuse and harm in dance, and calling for coordinated, system-wide action.
Photo by Samantha Weisburg
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have led a major new study highlighting widespread risk factors for abuse and harm in dance, and calling for coordinated, system-wide action to improve safeguarding across the sector.
The scoping review, Risk and Protective Factors for Safeguarding and Abuse Prevention in Dance, brings together international evidence to examine how abuse, maltreatment and neglect can become normalised within dance environments – and what can be done to prevent it. The research is among the first to apply a systems thinking approach to safeguarding in dance, drawing parallels with progress made in sport.
Led by researchers from the University’s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, the review analysed 15 academic studies and was informed by consultations with 23 dance professionals, including performers, educators, clinicians, researchers and safeguarding experts from across Europe and North America.
The findings suggest that entrenched cultural norms in dance – such as the expectation to tolerate pain, harsh criticism and power imbalances in pursuit of excellence – combine with weak regulation, inconsistent safeguarding guidance and a lack of mandatory certification for teachers to increase the risk of abuse.
Abuse and harm in dance do not occur in isolation. Our review shows that they are enabled by interconnected systems – from cultural expectations and organisational practices to gaps in regulation and oversight. If we want meaningful change, safeguarding has to be everybody’s business
While the review identified significant risks, it also highlighted protective factors that could reduce harm. These include clear safeguarding and reporting guidelines, stronger regulatory oversight, standardised certification for dance educators, improved safeguarding training, and the creation of psychologically safe spaces where dancers feel able to speak up without fear of career repercussions.
The researchers emphasise that progress will depend on collaboration across the entire dance ecology – involving dancers, teachers, organisations, policymakers, healthcare professionals and audiences.
“Dance is a highly valued art form, but artistic excellence should never come at the expense of wellbeing,” Dwarika added. “By learning from safeguarding advances in sport and working collaboratively across the sector, dance can move towards healthier, safer and more ethical environments for everyone involved.”
The study also identifies key gaps in existing research, including limited evidence beyond ballet, underrepresentation of non-Western dance contexts, and a lack of data on the experiences of marginalised and neurodiverse dancers. The authors call for further research that centres lived experience and strengthens prevention-focused approaches.
The review provides practical recommendations for researchers, practitioners and policymakers, and aims to support the development of more effective safeguarding strategies across the performing arts.
Michelle is a doctoral researcher, investigating the lived experiences and insights of dancers and how MST can be conceptualised in dance.
Assistant Professor in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Dr Quinton studies how sport, dance, and community environments support mental health and motivation through strengths-based psychology.
Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow
Dr Grace Tidmarsh is a Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow whose expertise lies in process evaluations and translating sport psychology to complex community settings.
