Dance/Movement Therapists’ Attitudes and Actions Regarding LGBTQI and Gender Nonconforming Communities

Abstract

This study examined dance/movement therapists’ attitudes and actions regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex (LGBTQI), and gender nonconforming communities (GNC). Building on similar studies conducted by music therapists and drama therapists, 42 survey questions were used to understand dance/movement therapists’ knowledge, preparedness, and how competent practice is being defined and enacted. The findings were analyzed based on 361 responses (26% response rate). Respondents were primarily professionals from the US (88%) who identified as female or cisgender female (91%) with a master’s degree (67%). The majority (87%) of dance/movement therapists reported being open and affirming, and 50% reported seeking supervision to counsel clients from the LGBTQI and GNC communities. However, a gap between the attitudes and applications of clinical skills was found. Sixty-two percent identified socio-political and/or legal issues, 48% named specific open and affirming approaches, and less than 1% reported the use of supervision as an approach to work with these communities. Fifty-two percent reported that clients’ sexual orientation had no influence on their choice of music, movement, or other interventions, and 43% reported the same for gender identity. The lack of knowledge and preparedness point to the need for more training and supervision. Advocacy counseling on the individual, institutional, and societal levels are suggested. More aesthetic research on movement, music, and prop choices are also recommended.