This updated and expanded new edition continues the theme of the first edition that presents a spectrum of research alternatives that can inform clinical practice, inspire the clinician, and guide scholarly dance/movement therapy (DMT) research. It highlights two basic research frameworks— quantitative (objective) and qualitative (interpretative)—including their underlying philosophic and theoretical tenets. The book is divided into four sections. Section 1 provides a sequential guide to the contents of the volume and establishes a rationale for the relevance of research to the field of dance/movement therapy. Section 2 explores the “Traditional Methods and Research Considerations” and is primarily devoted to experimental designs and the alternatives within the quantitative research paradigm. Section 3 addresses varying modes of qualitative approaches, and the interpretive designs that continue to evolve to meet the changing conditions of research inquiry in the arts and behavioral sciences. Section 4 comprises chapters that examine research alternatives and growing trends. These chapters include a spectrum of research models and methods such as evaluation research, embodied artistic inquiry, and mixing qualitative and quantitative methods in a single study. Throughout the book, many examples are given that provide knowledge and awareness of the living body, the diverse ways of working, and the importance of creative expression and integration. In addition, creative alternatives and options, artistic inquiry, single-subject design (SSD), individual case study, issues of reliability and validity, interviews, observations, and content analysis are explored that will assist the dance/movement therapist. This text will be an accessible introduction for students and interns as well as a useful guide for seasoned professionals.

Dance and Creativity within Dance Movement Therapy discusses the core work and basic concepts in dance movement therapy (DMT), focusing on the centrality of dance, the creative process and their aesthetic-psychological implications in the practice of the profession for both patients and therapists. Based on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary inputs from fields such as philosophy, anthropology and dance, contributions examine the issues presented by cultural differences in DMT through the input of practitioners from several diverse countries. Chapters blend theory and case studies with personal, intimate reflections to support critical descriptions of DMT interventions and share methods to help structure practice and facilitate communication between professionals and researchers. The book’s multicultural, multidisciplinary examination of the essence of dance and its countless healing purposes will give readers new insights into the value and functions of dance both in and out of therapy.

This book will be a valuable resource for anyone who wishes to learn more about the therapeutic use of creative movement and dance. It will be welcomed by students and practitioners in the arts therapies, psychotherapy, counselling and related professions

Dance Movement Therapy is a concise, practical introduction to a form of therapy, which has the body-mind relationship at its center.

This book examines the field of dance therapy from its inception in the 1940's to the present. A detailed analysis is conducted of the theory and practice of the major pioneers. The book covers biographical reports and the influence of many dance therapy leaders. Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) is discussed as well as dance therapy in specific patient/client settings. Appended are: (1) listing of survey repondents; (2) information on the American Dance Therapy Association; and (3) the Dance Therapy questionnaire. A 34-page bibliography is included. (JD)

Presenting dance/movement therapy (DMT) as a viable and valuable psychosocial support service for those with a medical illness, Sharon W. Goodill shows how working creatively with the mind/body connection can encourage and enhance the healing process. This book represents the first attempt to compile, synthesize, and publish the work that has been done over recent years in medical DMT. The emerging application of medical DMT is grounded within the context of established viewpoints and theories, such as arts therapies, health psychology and scientific perspectives. As well as examining its theoretical foundations, the author offers real-life examples of medical DMT working with people of different ages with different medical conditions. This comprehensive book provides a firm foundation for exploration and practice in medical DMT, including recommendations for professional preparation, research and program development. Interviews with dance/movement therapists bring fresh and exciting perspectives to the field and these and the author's testimonies point to the possible future applications of medical DMT. With an increasing number of professional dance/movement therapists working with the medically ill and their families, this is a timely and well-grounded look at an exciting new discipline. It is recommended reading for DMT students and professionals, complementary therapists, and all those with an interest in the healing potential of working innovatively with the mind and body.