Abstract
Several interesting ideas emerge from this study. To begin with, a large amount of information can be gleaned from quantifying and graphing a session. From this study a developmental pattern emerged; methods for comparative leadership styles suggested themselves; relationships between touch and movement came out; and synchronous activity and its developmental analog were manifested.
As studies of this nature increase, the development of a simple replicable descriptive system for observing and analyzing group dance therapy can be evolved. Information gleaned from the findings can serve to examine validate or refute existing theories and open the doors for the beginning of a researched body of knowledge concerning dance therapy groups.
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Additional information
Claire Schmais, MS., DTR, is an assistant professor and coordinator of the Hunter College Dance Therapy masters program, adjunct assistant professor at Cornell University Medical College, founding member of the ADTA, chairperson of the Dance Therapy Committee of A.A.H.P.E.R. and board member of C.O.R.D. She has given workshops and lectures and written numerous articles on dance therapy practice and training.
Diana Jacoff Felber, M.S., is currently employed by Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital. Her clinical work is with adults in an acute inpatient unit and a day hospital setting. A member of the faculty, she provides in-service training for medical and nursing students and personnel, and works closely with the Creative Arts Therapy program in a teaching and supervisory capacity.
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Schmais, C., Felber, D.J. Dance therapy analysis: A method for observing and analyzing a dance therapy group. Am J Dance Ther 1, 18–25 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02579600
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02579600