Dancing with Down Syndrome: A Look at the Effects and Benefits of Dance Movement Therapy on the Emotional Well-Being and Overall Quality of Life for Individuals with Down Syndrome

Author

Jenna Snyder, Assumption College

Graduation Year

2018

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies

Faculty Advisor

Robert Caron

Abstract

This thesis examines how combining the creativity of dance with the functionality of physical therapy can allow individuals with Down syndrome to not only be stimulated physically and cognitively, but also to help them to continue to lead very fulfilling and productive lives. Given the positive effects dance has on individuals with Down syndrome, it is expected that the expressive art form of dance movement therapy would be an optimal approach to increase and improve the emotional well-being and overall quality of life for this population. The literature review consists of an analysis of existing literature and personal interviews with professionals in the area of dance and dance movement therapy. The goal of the project is to raise awareness of the health risks associated with individuals who have Down syndrome and how dance movement therapy can alleviate those problems. An additional aim of the project is to encourage dance instructors and physical therapists to incorporate dance movement therapy into their own lesson plans.

Recommended Citation

Snyder, Jenna, "Dancing with Down Syndrome: A Look at the Effects and Benefits of Dance Movement Therapy on the Emotional Well-Being and Overall Quality of Life for Individuals with Down Syndrome" (2018). Honors Theses. 41.
https://digitalcommons.assumption.edu/honorstheses/41