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Legal and ethical issues of touch in dance/movement therapy

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Abstract

This paper includes a description of the use of touch in dance/movement therapy followed by a brief discussion of the social and emotional roles played by various forms of touch. The frequency of touch between patient and therapist is cited and the ethical issues, particularly concerning sexuality and the use of touch as power, are explored. Legal concerns include the definition and scope of malpractice, battery, and informed consent. Relevant cases are cited. The paper concludes with a presentation of a model for informed consent for touch in dance/movement therapy.

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Willis, C. Legal and ethical issues of touch in dance/movement therapy. Am J Dance Ther 10, 41–53 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02251788

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02251788

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