Creative Arts Therapies Theses

Date of Award

12-17-2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Art in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling (MA)

Department

Creative Arts Therapies

First Advisor

Imus, Susan

Second Advisor

Downey, Laura

Third Advisor

Brown, Andrea

Keywords

dance/movement therapy, female, male, internship, sexual behavior, gender, countertransference

Abstract

This study serves to explore the experience of a female dance/movement therapy intern working with males on a residential unit for sexually problematic behaviors. It enlightened me on how it was to be in relationship with them, through both a mind and body therapeutic lens. It addresses stereotypes and preconceived notions pertaining to this population. The questions attempted to be answered were as follows: How is it to be in relationship with males who are on a residential unit for sexually problematic behavior, as a female dance/movement therapy intern? How do I experience male/female relationships, gender, and sexuality on the unit? What is my positive or negative countertransference response to the male patients? How do I experience and respond to comments and/or gestures that feel uncomfortable? How do my thoughts, feelings, and sensations affect my clinical interventions? In this study, as it is heuristic in nature, I was both the inquirer and the inquired-into. I used body tracking, journaling, and self-interviews as qualitative data collection methods. To complete my research I utilized Forinash’s qualitative data analysis method to analyze my data. I also used the peer debriefer model and conducted a resonance panel to discuss my findings. 86 pages.

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