The Ethical Considerations and Impact of Children Taking Part in Dance Competitions

Abstract

Introduction

The rise of professional dance competitions has introduced children to a highly structured and competitive environment. While these events provide opportunities for skill development, they often expose minors to physical and psychological risks. Parents’ aspirations for fame and financial gain, combined with the allure of immediate rewards, drive many children into competitive dance. However, this environment poses ethical concerns and challenges, particularly regarding child labor, physical injuries, and the psychological impact on young participants.

Background

Dance competitions have evolved into a complex industry involving various stakeholders, including organizers, parents, and educators. The culture encourages early and intense participation, sometimes at the expense of children’s formative experiences and leisure activities. Modern competition formats prioritize rewards over traditional placements, raising concerns about the impact of such systems on young dancers’ well-being and social development.

Ethical Considerations

The participation of children in dance competitions highlights ethical dilemmas. These include the physical demands placed on immature bodies, the psychological strain of high expectations, and the questionable motivations of parents and organizers. The pressure to achieve early success often compromises children’s autonomy, rest, and holistic development. This scenario frequently aligns with definitions of child labor and abuse, as outlined by international frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Impact on Health

Children engaged in competitive dance face a heightened risk of injuries, such as musculoskeletal disorders and overuse syndromes. Psychologically, the competitive atmosphere can induce stress, behavioral changes, and depressive episodes, particularly following losses. The transition from informal dance to professional competition often disrupts their social and academic lives, leading to long-term repercussions on their overall well-being.

Case Analysis

The unexplained demise of a young dancer during a competition underscores the grave risks associated with this activity. Stakeholders often evade responsibility for such incidents, leaving critical ethical and legal questions unanswered.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while dance competitions provide opportunities for skill development and social bonding, they also pose significant risks to children’s social development, well-being, and rights. The emphasis on winning over learning can negatively impact young dancers’ lives, limiting their exploration of other interests and causing physical, behavioral, and psychological harm. Participation in such events often aligns with definitions of child abuse or mild child labor, as children face compromised rights, ethical dilemmas, and undue pressure from parents and organizers. A balanced, child-centered approach is essential to ensure their holistic development and safeguard their well-being.

Introduction

In contemporary discourse, there has been an increasing trend within the entertainment sector towards the facilitation of professional dance competitions. In numerous instances, children may find themselves subjected to exploitation by either the organizers or the parental figures who encourage their participation for the purposes of notoriety and financial gain. These dance competitions are conducted at varying tiers, ranging from local events to national and even international competitions. The youth often exert considerable effort in preparation for these contests, primarily driven by the aspirations of their parents and, at times, the allure of fame and monetary rewards. It is noteworthy that participants may often be minors of a tender age. The younger the participant, the greater the associated fame and glamour. Children who engage in these competitions frequently exert themselves to the detriment of their social and psychological well-being. It is imperative for them to possess physical resilience in order to meet the rigorous demands of the industry. Investigations into early childhood adversity and its ramifications have been notably scarce in India, characterized by a dearth of both cross-sectional and longitudinal research. ¹

In this manuscript, we commence by presenting an essential examination of the ethical considerations and implications concerning the involvement of children in dance competitions. It scrutinizes the intricate culture surrounding dance competitions, which encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders including participants, parents, judges, event organizers, dance studio proprietors, and instructors.

Ultimately, it is posited that the engagement of minor children in dance competitions constitutes a form of child abuse or child labor. The repercussions of these dance competitions may inflict harm upon the children involved. Behavioral and psychosocial alterations may ensue in the lives of these children as a consequence of their participation in such events. There exist significant ethical dilemmas that necessitate attention in this context. The rights of children are frequently undermined. The involvement of children in dance competitions can be interpreted as a manifestation of “Child Labor,” wherein parents and other stakeholders may inadvertently participate, either directly or indirectly.

In contemporary society, there has been an increasing prevalence within the entertainment sector regarding the systematic organization of professional dance competitions. In numerous instances, children may find themselves exploited either by the organizers or by their parents, who may urge their participation driven by aspirations for fame and financial gain. These dance competitions are conducted at multiple tiers, ranging from localized events to national or even international contests. The youth typically exert considerable effort in preparation for these competitions, often motivated by desires to fulfill parental expectations and, at times, by the allure of fame and financial rewards. On occasion, the participants are minors at tender ages, with younger contestants often attracting greater fame and glamour. The children engaged in these competitions dedicate themselves to rigorous training and make significant sacrifices regarding various facets of their formative years. It is imperative for these children to possess physical resilience in order to meet the strenuous demands of the industry. From the author’s perspective, the phenomenon of child professionalism in this context can readily be classified as “Child Labor” or a variant of Child Abuse.

In addition to the risk of fatalities, children also face the potential for injuries while engaging in dance competitions. Sekulic et al. (2020) documented that 53% of dancers reported experiencing musculoskeletal issues or injuries, with the average dancer suffering approximately 0.72 injuries throughout the study duration (95% CI: 0.28–1.41), which translates to an annual injury incidence rate of 280%. The incidence of injury was not significantly correlated with either gender or dance styles. A heightened risk for injury was noted among older and more experienced dancers. ²

Bellerose (2020) identified various injuries commonly sustained in dance, including but not limited to ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints or tibial stress syndrome, muscle strains and tears, trigger toe, anterior/posterior ankle impingement, snapping hip syndrome, hip impingement, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and osteoarthritis. ³

Beyond physical injuries, children may experience enduring musculoskeletal alterations as a consequence of intensified physical activity. The premature development of musculature and skeletal structure may instigate psychological transformations, potentially influencing behavioral patterns in children.

The child may exhibit behaviors characteristic of a responsible adult; however, this abrupt transition from innocent childhood to adult-like behavior may engender a psychological conflict within the child, rendering them uncertain about how to appropriately navigate the dichotomy of being a child versus an adult responsible for familial obligations.

In addition to this behavioral conflict, children may also experience depressive episodes following competition losses. Although children possess a limited capacity for comprehensive understanding, they are acutely aware of their parents’ expectations. This awareness may ultimately culminate in self-sacrifice for the benefit of their parents, who may remain oblivious to these underlying emotions, mistakenly equating success with fame and glamour.

The discourse explores the progression from informal dancing to a more formalized structure as children engage in competitive dancing, underscoring its potential ramifications on their social development and raising concerns regarding the extensive time commitments, diminished leisure opportunities, and elevated performance expectations imposed on young competitors.

It delves into the transition from informal dancing to a more structured approach when children participate in competitive dancing, emphasizing its potential impact on their social development and concerns regarding the time commitment, reduced leisure time, and heightened performance standards that competitive dance imposes on young participants. ⁴

The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) (42 U.S.C.A. § 5106g), as amended by the CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010, defines child abuse and neglect as, at minimum: “Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker, which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation”; or “An act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm.” ⁵

Background of Children’s Participation in Dance Competitions

Children’s participation in dance competitions has a rich historical background that has evolved over time. Dance competition culture involves various stakeholders, including competitors, guardians, judges, organizers, studio owners, and teachers.^{4, 6} It is common for parents to enroll their young children in dance classes to enhance their motor skills, and dance studios typically welcome students of all age levels and experiences. However, when children transition to competitive dance, a more serious and demanding approach is required. Competitive dance involves extensive training, rehearsals, and traveling, which can significantly impact a child’s social life and free time. Moreover, the shift in focus from learning to winning in competitive dance raises concerns about the potential negative effects on young individuals’ social development.

Furthermore, the competitive dance industry has seen changes in competition formats, with some competitions now awarding prizes based on hitting specific point categories rather than traditional first-place winners. ⁶ This shift has drawn in young dancers and their parents by offering instant gratification through awards. However, it has also sparked criticism, with concerns raised about the impact on young dancers who dedicate extensive hours to training and rehearsing, only to be scored in a matter of seconds. Judges play a crucial role in offering constructive criticism and inspiring dancers, with the responsibility to understand their influence on the future generation of dancers. Overall, understanding the historical context and the evolving nature of children’s participation in dance competitions is crucial in comprehensively addressing the ethical and societal implications of this practice.

Child Labor Laws and Regulations

Child labor laws and regulations play a critical role in governing children’s participation in dance competitions, ensuring their well-being and protection. In the context of dance competitions, these laws often dictate the maximum number of hours a child can rehearse and perform, as well as the working conditions and supervision requirements.

Definition of Child Labor

Child labor is defined as any work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, and that is harmful to their physical and mental development. ⁷ The International Labor Organization (ILO) sets the minimum age for work at 15 years, with an exception for light work starting at 13, and hazardous work at 18. In the context of children’s participation in dance competitions, it is crucial to consider whether the nature and intensity of their involvement align with these parameters, as well as with the overarching goal of safeguarding their well-being and development.

Furthermore, the definition of child labor encompasses not only the hours worked but also the type of work performed. It is essential to assess whether participation in dance competitions aligns with the principles of protection and education, ensuring that it contributes positively to the child’s physical, emotional, and social development. Balancing the competitive nature of dance competitions with the ethical considerations related to child labor remains a key challenge in the industry. ⁶

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations surrounding children’s participation in dance competitions are multifaceted and require careful examination. DeMaria ⁴ highlights that while dance competitions can foster skill development and discipline, they can also pose risks to the social and psychological well-being of young participants. The decision for a child to engage in competitive dance often involves various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and competition organizers, each with their own motivations and responsibilities. Mack ⁶ emphasizes the evolving nature of dance competitions, with a shift toward recognizing multiple top scorers rather than a singular first-place winner. This alteration aims to provide constructive feedback and encouragement to all participants, but it also underscores the intense pressure and dedication demanded from young dancers.

The ethical discourse on children’s involvement in highly competitive activities necessitates a balanced consideration of the benefits and potential drawbacks, particularly in relation to the physical and psychological maturity of the participants. It is crucial for parents, guardians, and dance professionals to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions that prioritize the holistic well-being of the child, rather than solely focusing on competitive success.

Impact on Physical and Mental Health

Intense participation in dance competitions can have significant implications for the physical and mental health of children. Competitive dance involves extensive training, rehearsals, and travel, leaving little time for other activities and interests, as highlighted by DeMaria. ⁴ This intense focus on competition can lead to physical strain, fatigue, and increased risk of injury, especially in young dancers whose bodies are still developing. Moreover, the shift from learning and enjoyment to a relentless pursuit of victory can create psychological stress and impact social development, particularly when young individuals are not fully mature enough to handle such pressures. The high standards and expectations set for competitive dancers may exacerbate these challenges, raising concerns about the well-being of young participants. Therefore, while competitive dance can offer opportunities for skill development, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and ensure that the physical and mental health of children remains a priority in this context.

Case Discussion

Anisha Sharma, A 12-year-old girl suddenly collapsed mid-dance and died unexplainedly at a competition in Kandivali West on Tuesday evening in an incident that has baffled and shocked eye-witnesses. Doctors have reserved their opinion on the cause of her death. According to a forensic expert at Bhagwati Hospital, where the girl’s body was sent for postmortem, she suffered no physical injury and had no known medical history of illness. ⁸

If we look into the case of Anisha Sharma, the question arises about the cause of death in this case and the responsible entity, who put this 12-year-old child in this fatal situation. Legally, at this age, the child is regarded as a minor and is unable to understand the potential threat she has, as a result of his involvement in this competition.

If we try to fix the accountability for the death of Anisha Sharma, all the stakeholders have their own version to defend themselves. All of them positively claimed to be innocent and not guilty. So, the question remains an unsolved mystery “Who is responsible for the Death of Anisha Sharma.”

It is debatable now that since the death and injuries are beyond hypothetical level and are correlated with this activity, can we say that participation in dance competitions can be considered as “An act which may results in death, serious physical harm.”

Winning or loosing in these competitions may also impact the social image of the child and his family as well. With every win the child may face social recognition or may face boycott after losing, in both ways, the tide of emotional outbursts may devastate the childhood. The impact of this social trauma may impact the school performance, the child may loose interest in going to school as he is already achieving success with every win in his life.

Factor promoting this “Child Labor” or “Child Abuse”

Parent Factors: The parent on many occasions sees the dance competition as an opportunity for the child to become a successful dancer of the future having financial benefits. The glamorous life of the cities also motivated the parents to encourage their children to participate in these events. The parent may sometimes be motivated to have a shortcut to the child’s success.

Organizer Factor: The organizers of these competitions advertised these events purely on a marketing basis but labeling them as “Talent Shows.” The usual purpose of these shows is rather financial.

Child Factors: The child usually participates as a result of a motivational drive from parents and the organizers. The children in this age group are usually incapable of understanding the gravity of the situation. They usually believe that, as parents are motivating, it is a good act.

Ethical Factors: Ethically and socially, the children are in the custody of their parents or guardians, and on many occasions, the parents or guardian use their kids as objects, knowingly or unknowingly, without or having very limited concerns about the child’s decision or non-compliance.

Legally the Children enjoy rights. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is an important agreement by countries that have promised to protect children’s rights. The convention explains who children are, all their rights, and the responsibilities of governments. All the rights are connected, they are all equally important and they cannot be taken away from children.^9–11

The rights of the child violated in this particular situation are:

Best interests of the child: When adults make decisions, they should think about how their decisions will affect children. In this case, parents have limited understanding or awareness about the impact of these acts on the life of a child.

Respect for children’s views: Children have the right to give their opinions freely on issues that affect them. Adults should listen and take children seriously. The pressure of achieving early success may sometimes compromise with the children’s views of non-participation.

Freedom of thought: Children can choose their own thoughts and opinions. In this case, it is compromised as the child may sometimes be forced to participate.

Protection of privacy: Every child has the right to privacy. Privacy is compromised with each competition more and more people are aware of the private life of the child.

Children with disabilities: Every child with a disability should enjoy the best possible life in society. Participation by disabled children is more than welcome by organizers who do not want to miss the popularity gained by exposing a disabled child to the public. The emotional gain guided the financial benefits of the organizers.

Rest, play, culture, arts: Every child has the right to rest, relax, play and to take part in cultural and creative activities. The child may have found limited time after the daily training activities.

Protection from harmful work: Children have the right to be protected from doing work that is dangerous or bad for their education, health or development. If children work, they have the right to be safe and paid fairly. This right is violated as we consider this work as hazardous work. hazardous work means the work which, by its nature or the circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to cause harm to the health, safety or morals of children and adolescents.

Protection from sexual abuse: it is not uncommon condition in which the child face sexual harassment at dance school and competitions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ethical and practical implications of children’s participation in dance competitions are multifaceted. While dance competitions offer opportunities for skill development, performance experience, and forming strong bonds with peers, it is crucial to consider the potential negative impact on young individuals’ social development and well-being. The shift in focus from learning to winning awards in competitive dance raised concerns about the toll on young dancers’ social lives and limited opportunities to explore other interests. Additionally, the importance of understanding the perspectives of various stakeholders, including parents, dance studio owners, competition directors, and convention teachers, in redefining the competitive dance industry to ensure a balanced and positive experience for young participants. These insights underscore the need for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the well-being and holistic development of children involved in dance competitions.

It is also concluded that participation in dance competitions by small kids is considered a form of child abuse or child labor. The children may suffer harm as a result of the impact of these dance competitions. The child may suffer from behavioral and psychosocial changes as a result of these events in his life. There are ethical issues to be addressed in this situation. The child’s rights are often compromised. Participation of children in dance competitions may be considered as a mild form of “Child Labor” in which the parents and stakeholders or unknowingly involved.

Recommendations

Alternatives to Competitive Dance

Competitive dance has been a prevalent avenue for young dancers, but there are alternative pathways that offer a broader perspective on the variety of opportunities available for children’s engagement in dance. Recreational dance programs, for instance, provide a non-competitive environment where children can explore and enjoy dance without the pressures of winning or losing. These programs focus on skill development, creativity, and fun, promoting a more relaxed and inclusive approach to dance education. ¹ Additionally, community-based dance classes and workshops offer a supportive and collaborative setting for young dancers to learn and grow, emphasizing personal growth and expression over competition. ⁶

It is important to recognize that while competitive dance can enhance talent and work ethic, it should not overshadow the fundamental aspects of dance education, such as technique and passion. By considering these alternative pathways, parents, educators, and young dancers can make informed decisions about the most suitable approach to dance education, taking into account the physical, psychological, and social well-being of the children involved.

Recreational Dance Programs

Unlike competitive dance, recreational programs prioritize learning and personal improvement over winning, allowing young participants to enjoy dance without the intense time commitments and pressure associated with competitions. It is suggested that while competitive dance can enhance a student’s drive and work ethic, it should not be the sole approach to dance education, highlighting the need to balance competition with a focus on education and personal development.