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Herrin_Denick_20011.47 MB
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Thesis
A survey of dance/movement therapists and the effects of pregnancy on their clinical experiences
Master of Arts (M.A.), Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University
Aug 2001
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-2650
Abstract
This study examines the experience of pregnancy for the dance/movement therapist (D/MT). 830 surveys were sent to registered D/MTs nationwide with a resulting 47.4% response rate. Of these, 143 qualified for the study. To qualify the D/MT needed to have experienced a full-term pregnancy while practicing dance/movement therapy. The survey instrument was composed of both multiple choice and short answer questions in the areas of transference, countertransference, pregnancy disclosure,supervision, and co-worker relationships in relation to the pregnant dance/movementtherapist. In addition, it contained questions about the movement qualities of both the therapist and her clients in relation to her pregnancy. Major findings include themes of protection and caretaking of the D/MT by clients, co-workers, and herself. Also, some respondents noted a diminishment or restraint of movement and a change in the boundaries of the kinesthetic and therapeutic relationship in both clients and themselves. Population specific reactions to the therapist's pregnancy are suggested in the results, especially with elderly, eatingdisordered, and seriously mentally ill clients. The research confirms that pregnancy affects the D/MT on multiple levels, including her movement repertoire, approach to clients, and her clients' responses to her. Supervision is strongly advised for the pregnant D/MT to process these changes and use their effects as a way to facilitate therapy with clients.
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Details
- Title
- A survey of dance/movement therapists and the effects of pregnancy on their clinical experiences
- Creators
- Denick Colgan Herrin - DH
- Contributors
- Ellen Schelly Hill (Advisor) - DH
- Awarding Institution
- Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Publisher
- Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Creative Arts in Therapy [Historical]; Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University (1993-1996, 1998-2002); College of Nursing and Health Professions (2000-2002)
- Other Identifier
- 2650; 991014632588304721