Dance Movement Therapy Commons^™

Rhythmically Rooted: Exploring The Role Of Rhythmic Identity In Dance/Movement Therapy, Christina Maerlender

Dance/Movement Therapy Theses

Abstract

Historically, in psychology, identity has been defined in Eurocentric, individualist ways. Freud and Erickson’s ideas have influenced how the West views identity development. In recent years, there has been a significant shift in perspectives within psychology, sociology, and philosophy regarding identity development (Caldwell, 2016). Contemporary understandings emphasize identity's dynamic, culturally embedded, and multifaceted nature. Building on the ideas expressed by Caldwell (2016) and the conceptualization of rhythm as an inherently embodied phenomenon, the exploration of identity through rhythm emerges as a means to incorporate the Self's evolving experiences while reflecting the dynamic, culturally embedded, and multifaceted nature of identity. …

Addressing White Body Supremacy In The Black Body: An Embodied Approach, Alexandra Stewart

Dance/Movement Therapy Theses

Oppression, discrimination, and racism are deeply rooted within our country’s institution and are the framework for the ideology, political, social, and economic values that are still upheld today. The enforcement of White body supremacy has caused trauma related mental and bodily distress to develop into anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS), and other mental conditions manifested in the body. As oppression is not officially acknowledged as trauma, it significantly complicates the process of healing for Black people. Degruy (2005) calls Black people to action to heal the traumas that have been passed down …