The Role of Dance/Movement Therapy on Inmates After Restrictive Housing – A Literature Review

Author

Savannah MeloFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-21-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Dr. Lee Ann Thill

Abstract

The aim of this literature review is to highlight the impact dance/movement therapy has on individuals who have experienced segregated housing in a correctional facility and the mental health effects segregation may cause. The negative effects this housing may cause will be explored. This exploration will include related applications of dance/movement therapy (DMT), demonstrating how in past research it has been shown to improve different mental health symptoms. Though dance/movement therapy is not as readily available to the prison population, the intention of this thesis is to investigate expressive arts, specifically DMT, as a treatment modality for inmate mental health. Dance/movement therapy studies will show the effectiveness of DMT and the benefits, both physical and mental. Individuals in segregation have diagnosed mental health illness and dance/movement therapy is proven to increase positive symptoms of these illnesses. This thesis intends to find research supporting alternatives to segregation and the negative effects it can have on individuals, while advocating for expanded access to expressive arts therapies for this population.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Melo, Savannah, "The Role of Dance/Movement Therapy on Inmates After Restrictive Housing – A Literature Review" (2022). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 590.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/590