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Taming Tidal Waves: A Dance/Movement Therapy Approach to Supporting Emotion Regulation in Maltreated Children

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Abstract

This theoretical work examines the question of how dance/movement therapy (DMT) might be applied to support the development of emotion regulation in maltreated children, specifically in the context of residential treatment centers. As foundation for this discussion, literature pertaining to the ontogenesis of adaptive emotion regulation and the consequences of early maltreatment on its development is reviewed. Also included is a summary of therapeutic approaches and residential treatment models that address emotion regulation in children. A theoretical framework for promoting emotion regulation in maltreated children based on DMT principles and an accompanying residential treatment application is proposed.

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  1. Department of Somatic Counseling Psychology, Naropa University, Boulder, CO, USA

    April Betty

  2. 4682 White Rock Circle Unit 4, Boulder, CO, 80301, USA

    April Betty

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Betty, A. Taming Tidal Waves: A Dance/Movement Therapy Approach to Supporting Emotion Regulation in Maltreated Children. Am J Dance Ther 35, 39–59 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10465-013-9152-3

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