ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we investigate how dance movement therapy (DMT) novices evaluate the importance of dance for their profession and their work. We review the literature on the relevance of dance in DMT and present novices’ answers to the research question. An international online survey was distributed in English via directors of Masters’ programs, professional DMT training institutions and DMT associations to DMT novices all over the world. The novices’ responses are analyzed to assess their attitudes towards dance, and the responses are compared to those from experts in the field. We discuss whether dance movement therapists’ professional dance background seems to be relevant and crucial to novices’ identity. Further implication for DMT and the influence and relevance of dance on the DMT profession are discussed.
