Abstract
This article highlights the contributions that dance/movement therapy can make to the treatment of battered women. By motivating female victims of domestic violence to act, dance/movement therapy addresses patterns of helplessness, ambivalence, and inactivity. Dance/movement interventions hlep women internalize a positive self-concept as well as gain physical and emotional control. In keeping with the short-term, crisis-oriented nature of standard treatment of battered women, a psychosocial plan of intervention which addresses their isolation and immobilization is recommended. Lastly, implications for in-depth, dance/movement therapy are made.
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The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions of playwright Karen Malpede for her creative collaboration in sessions with battered women. We also want to thank Eileen Moran, whose vision and support made this work possible.
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Leventhal, F., Chang, M. Dance/movement therapy with battered women: A paradigm of action. Am J Dance Ther 13, 131–145 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00844142
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00844142