Connecting Through Dance: Understanding Conscious Clubbing Event Experiences

Hill, Kimberley M. and Johansson, Mattias and Smith, Joanne and Brown, Kyle and Davies, Emma L. (2022) Connecting Through Dance: Understanding Conscious Clubbing Event Experiences. Qualitative Health Research, 32 (11). pp. 1721-1731. ISSN 1049-7323

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Abstract

Individuals abstaining from alcohol consumption frequently find themselves in contexts encouraging consumption, with limited alternative social interaction opportunities. Conscious clubbing events exclude alcohol and drugs, possibly providing valuable social connections, but little is known about event benefits. Twelve conscious clubbing event attendees and facilitators aged 25–55 from across Europe participated in semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews, which were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings suggested that conscious clubbing appears to enhance health, healing and growth, aiding recovery from substance dependency and trauma. Positioned as a modern ritual, symbolic and ritualistic preparations and experiences promoted storytelling and self-discovery. Connecting through synchronised but unchoreographed movement, participants engaged in powerful journeys and transformative experiences detached from life constraints. Inclusive digital and face-to-face conscious clubbing communities provided a sense of meaning and belonging away from substance use pressures and harms, particularly for those marginalised within society. Findings provide important and in-depth insights, including novel harm prevention implications. Future work should consider participatory barriers, event sustainability and misconceptions to increase event availability and participation.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1177/10497323221116804
Dates:	Date Event 1 July 2022 Accepted 22 July 2022 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	alcohol, alcoholism, addiction, health promotion, health, health behaviour, behaviour, psychology, psychological issues
Subjects:	CAH04 - psychology > CAH04-01 - psychology > CAH04-01-01 - psychology (non-specific)
Divisions:	Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Psychology
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	16 Jan 2023 16:14
Last Modified:	11 Jun 2024 13:02
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/13872

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