Diversity and Impact of DanceArt Therapy and Mental HealthRecreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management

Xiaoman Kang, Qiu-ping Xu, R. Zhao

2026.1.14SOCIAL BEHAVIOR AND PERSONALITY

DOI: 10.2224/sbp.14778

Abstract

Square dancing has gained popularity among middle???aged and older adults in China, and recent research has highlighted its potential benefits for psychological well???being. This study investigated the relationship between square dancing and psychological well???being among middle???aged and older adults in China, with a focus on perceived social support as a potential mediator. We conducted a cross???sectional survey involving 226 participants from China and found a positive relationship between square???dancing participation and both perceived social support and psychological well???being. Furthermore, perceived social support partially mediated the positive relationship of square???dancing participation with psychological well???being. This study underscores the significance of square dancing as an effective strategy for promoting mental health among middle???aged and older adults, particularly through the enhancement of social support. Consequently, we advocate for the promotion of square??? dancing programs as a viable mental health intervention for this demographic.

Citation format

KANG, Xiaoman; XU, Qiu-ping; ZHAO, R. Linking square dancing to psychological well???being: Perceived social support as a mediator. SOCIAL BEHAVIOR AND PERSONALITY, 2026, 54(1): 1–8.