Introduction
TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS FOR PERFORMERS
Selection and Self-Investment
The Role of Mentoring
Technical Standards
Work and Identity
WEIGHT STANDARDS FOR THE STAGE AND SCREEN
Defining Physical Parameters
The Dancer's Dilemma
The Etiology of Eating Disorders
The Case of Ginger
PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS IN THE ARTS
The Family Unit
The Stage Parent
Peer Review
Transference and the Role of the Leader
FOCUSING THE SPOTLIGHT ON PERFORMANCE
The Quest for Approval
Discrepancies Between the Real and Ideal Self
The Etiology of Performance Anxiety
The Case of Leon
OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES AND RETIREMENT
Work Hazards Among Performers
Physical Stress and Injuries
The Emotional Costs of Disability
Relinquishing the Dream
PERFORMING ARTS PSYCHOLOGY
Developing a Proficiency
Treatment Protocols
Ethical Issues in the Care of Performers
Future Directions
Appendix: An Overview of Narcissism
Resource Directory
References
Author Index
Subject Index

Dr. Linda Hamilton's ground breaking book, The Person Behind the Mask: A Guide to Performing Arts Psychology, takes the reader on a vivid journey of the performer's private world, where personal insecurity often wages an unsuccessful battle against the stresses of the profession-whether these are unrealistic weight requirements, debilitating injuries, or stage fright. Intended for performers, teachers, and health-care workers, this is a book that describes the psychological problems of the stage, with a focus on education and prevention.