Transformed ground, transformed body: Clinical implications for dance movement therapy with forced migrants

Abstract

This paper considers the role of dance movement therapy (DMT) with forced migrants. The displacement of people refers to the forced movement of people from their locality or environment and occupational activities. It is a form of social change caused by several factors, the most common being armed conflict, although natural disasters, famine, development and economic changes may also be causes of displacement. In this study we consider the current situation experienced by people who have been forcibly displaced and the circumstances under which they left their country of origin, their journey and survival in the host country. A bibliographic review of DMT work with forced migrants and refugees highlights the importance of movement as a therapy with this population and stresses the urgency to find solutions for their integration in the host societies.