Dance and Movement Therapy With Children and Developmental Disabilities/Disorders

Introduction

Dance is considered one of the most fundamental art forms since it embodies expression directly from the individual. It has been used throughout history by an extensive number of cultures for entertainment, enjoyment, expression, celebration, tradition, and sacred practice. In the 1940s, dance was introduced into the field of psychology as a form of psychotherapy. It became a quickly growing field in the creative arts therapies, combining psychotherapy and embodiment. The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) was soon founded in 1966 to establish a set of high-quality standards among certified dance and movement therapists. The ADTA defines dance therapy as, “the psychotherapeutic use of movement as a process that furthers the emotional, cognitive, social, and physical integration of the individual” (Pratt, 2004, p. 831). There are two ways to become a registered dance and movement therapist in the United States. The first is to complete an approved ADTA graduate program, each with their own requirements and processes. The alternative way to achieve certification is from an already obtained master’s degree in a related field of psychology, with additional dance and movement therapy training from a qualified teacher. Certified therapists work with clients to develop goals and improve movement quality, vocabulary, self-esteem, communication, and more. Today, dance and movement therapy is used in a variety of settings such as specialty schools, hospitals, and at home visits. Sessions are also often held at private practices, rehabilitation centers, and mental health clinics worldwide. The goal of dance therapy is different for each individual based on his or her current needs. However, most individuals who participate in dance therapy receive a multitude of both physical and mental health benefits, and an overall improved quality of life.

Anyone can participate in dance and movement therapy exercises as long as they are willing to engage with the therapist. Age of clients can range from infancy to older adults, with outcomes tailored to individual needs. For infants, motor exercises and facial expression practices are common to promote healthy developmental growth. Adolescents may partake in dance therapy for an increase in communication skills, self-esteem, or body image. Elders may choose to participate in dance therapy for an improved range of motion, as well as cognitive and emotional health benefits. A study conducted by Balgaonkar (2010), suggests that, “Dance helps increase the temporal and prefrontal activity to improve memory, multitasking, planning, and attention skills… [which] helps the older brain to form new interconnections and work faster” (p. 67). This is certainly beneficial for an aging brain to reinforce or create new connections, which may reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Although dance therapy can be beneficial to individuals of all ages, genders, races, and cultures, the benefit to children is substantial. The present chapter will focus solely on children for several reasons. Dance and movement therapy is highly effective for children because of the countless creative aspects, play-like scenarios, and the plasticity, or malleability of the children’s developing brains. Treatment for developmental disorders beginning in childhood also produce more successful outcomes compared to beginning treatment later in adulthood. Additionally, dance and other physical activities increase the release of endorphins, enhancing one’s state of well-being and contributing to the enjoyment of the activity (Teixeira-Machado, 2017, p. 427). This is especially favorable when working with children to prevent boredom or refusal of engagement. Furthermore, the present chapter will introduce best approaches and treatments for children, as well as specific developmental disorders dance therapy has been shown to be valuable towards.