The Examination of Dancers' Character Strengths Based on the VIA Model

Abstract

Dance is a complex artistic and physical activity that integrates psychological, emotional, and social processes beyond its physical aspects, thus playing a significant role in personal development and well-being. The aim of this research was to examine which character strengths are more prominent among people with dance experience within the framework of the Values in Action (VIA) model and how these relate to dance activity. The research was conducted using an online questionnaire and a cross-sectional design, with 80 participants (70 women, 10 men; average age: 36.1 years; SD = 13.2). Based on the results, no statistically significant difference was found between the distribution of character strengths in the dancer and non-dancer groups. At the same time, creativity consistently appeared as the primary character strength in a higher proportion of those with dance experience, drawing attention to the self-expressive, creative nature of dance and the role of cognitive-emotional flexibility. The results of the study can contribute to a deeper understanding of the educational and character-building potential of dance and offer useful insights for dance education practice and strength-based developmental approaches.