Occupational Idenity and satisfaction through Dance

Christiansen (1999) first recognised the concept of occupations and identity, “Occupations are key not just to being a person, but to being a particular person, and thus creating and maintaining an identity” (p. 576).

Although as a beginner dancer, it may be difficult to identify yourself as a 'dancer', when you only know basic steps and moves, through further participation in this activity it can become ones identity, as could be seen through the dancers I met while attending social dancing.  Through engaging in dance, Individuals can obtain an identity as a Lindy-Hop dancer, a Blues, Ceroc.. Salsa Dancer. When you ask them the question what do you do..? Not only do they mention their love and involvement of dance, but they clarify what type of dance they do, and how long they'd being involved for, & how much they just LOVE IT!

Occupational identity is linked with occupational satisfaction, which is the ability to engage in meaningful and purposeful activity or as defined by Christiansen and Townsend, (2010) as “contentment with occupations” (p. 421). Although individuals will engage in differing occupations depending on their culture and society,  the meaning  and purpose of these various occupations will be subjective for each individual (Wilcock, 1998). All people are occupational beings, all who have unique occupational needs. When individuals are engaged in occupations that develop potential, creativity and a balanced use of capabilities this enables them to experience support, satisfaction, meaning and purpose, and is also beneficial to an individual’s health and occupational well-being (Wilcock, 1998).  Although, I wouldn't say that I am a Swing Dancer, just yet, I can definitely see why other participants who engage in this dance do. I think through further dancing and LOTS more practice, that one day, I too may call myself a 'Swing dancer' or another dancer of some sorts.. Scottish perhaps..? Through participation and contentment of dancing, it can form ones identity and satisfaction. So what are you waiting for... LET's DANCE!!!

References

Christiansen, C. (1999). Defining lives: Occupation as identity: An essay on competence, coherence and the creation of meaning. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 53, 547-558.

Christensen, C., & Townsend, E. (Eds.), (2010). An introduction to occupation: The art and science of living. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

Wilcock, A. A. (1998). Occupation for health. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 61(8), 340-345.