Date of Award
12-17-2019
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Gerontology Institute
First Advisor
Chivon A. Mingo
Second Advisor
Tamara A. Baker
Third Advisor
Jennifer Craft Morgan
Abstract
Aging Black adults remain disproportionately diagnosed with physical and mental health conditions. Behavioral interventions promoting healthy behaviors, such as dance therapy, can be used to manage many physical and mental health conditions successfully. Little is known about the willingness to participate in dance specifically for health benefits among this population. Using an exploratory research design, this study examined Black older adults’ preferences and perceptions about dancing in general and specifically for physical and mental health benefits. Thirty-six participants completed a semi-structured questionnaire that assessed demographics, health status, beliefs, attitudes, intentions, and dance therapy intervention structure and delivery preferences. Findings indicate Black older adults express interest in engaging in dance for health benefits. Beliefs, attitudes, and intentions were positively correlated with dancing for health benefits. Therefore, designing dance therapy interventions for health benefits may be a feasible way to increase physical activity and prevent adverse health outcomes among Black older adults.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/15945524
Recommended Citation
Keith, Briana, "Dancing For Physical and Mental Health Benefits: Understanding The Attitudes, Beliefs, And Intentions Of Aging Black/African Americans." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2019.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/15945524
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