An Inquiry into the Use of Interpersonal Touch in Dance Movement Therapy with Adults with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties/Disabilities

Abstract

This paper is the synthesis of a small-scale inquiry spread over two years. It documents the reflection of four Dance Movement Therapists (DMTs) on the Use of Interpersonal Touch (IPT) in their clinical practice with adults with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties/Disabilities (PMLD). In the literature review the author integrates medical and social theoretical frameworks which inform her DMT practice with this client group. The inquiry combined an Art-based research framework with a Heuristic methodology which enabled the author to use the arts in the process of inquiry and to include herself in the process of inquiry. The inquiry sought to gather participants’ reflections on their experience and understanding of the part IPT plays in their DMT practice with adults with PMLD. Following the literature review and the presentation of her methodological choices, the author introduces a ‘Polyvocal Metaphor’ as a narrative re-presentation of the subject of inquiry. The use of IPT is of significance for the building of relationships with adults with PMLD, consequently this inquiry has implications reaching beyond the field of DMT.