Argentine tango dance compared to mindfulness meditation and a waiting-list control: a randomised trial for treating depression.
Study Goal
To determine whether tango dancing is as effective as mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of psychological stress, anxiety, and depression, and in promoting well-being.
Results Summary
Mindfulness meditation significantly reduced depression levels (effect size d=0.54, p=.025) but did not significantly reduce stress levels. Tango dance also reduced depression (d=0.50, p=.010) and stress (d=0.45, p=.022), and was a predictor for increased mindfulness.
Population
Ninety-seven people with self-declared depression in Sydney, Australia.
Effective Dosage
1.5 hours per week
Duration
6 weeks
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
tango dance | decrease | Depression levels | people with self-declared depression | effect size d=0.50 | significantly reduced | #1 |
mindfulness meditation | decrease | Depression levels | people with self-declared depression | effect size d=0.54 | significantly reduced | #2 |
tango dance | decrease | Stress levels | people with self-declared depression | effect size d=0.45 | significantly reduced | #3 |
tango dance | increase | mindfulness | people with self-declared depression | R(2)=.10, adjusted R(2)=.07, F (2,59)=3.42 | significant predictor for the increased levels | #4 |
OBJECTIVES: To determine whether tango dancing is as effective as mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of psychological stress, anxiety and depression, and in promoting well-being. DESIGN: This study employed analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and multiple regression analysis. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-seven people with self-declared depression were randomised into tango dance or mindfulness meditation classes, or to control/waiting-list. SETTING: classes were conducted in a venue suitable for both activities in the metropolitan area of Sydney, Australia. INTERVENTIONS: Participants completed six-week programmes (1½h/week of tango or meditation). The outcome measures were assessed at pre-test and post-test. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale; The Self Esteem Scale; Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale. RESULTS: Sixty-six participants completed the program and were included in the statistical analysis. Depression levels were significantly reduced in the tango (effect size d=0.50, p=.010), and meditation groups (effect size d=0.54, p=.025), relative to waiting-list controls. Stress levels were significantly reduced only in the tango group (effect size d=0.45, p=.022). Attending tango classes was a significant predictor for the increased levels of mindfulness R(2)=.10, adjusted R(2)=.07, F (2,59)=3.42, p=.039. CONCLUSION: Mindfulness-meditation and tango dance could be effective complementary adjuncts for the treatment of depression and/or inclusion in stress management programmes. Subsequent trials are called to explore the therapeutic mechanisms involved.