| Abstract [eng] |
Title of the Master’s Thesis: The effect of Dance Movement Therapy on the psycho emotional health of women with anxiety disorders. Agnė Ščiukaitė, Vilnius, Vilnius University, 2025. Research problem: Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions, characterized by persistent psychophysiological arousal, somatic symptoms, and difficulties in emotion regulation. Empirical studies indicate that anxiety frequently manifests through bodily experiences—such as muscular tension, respiratory dysfunction, and motor inhibition—accompanied by heightened interoceptive sensitivity and psychological distress. Although pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments are available, they are not always effective or accessible for all individuals. As a result, increasing attention is being given to arts-based therapeutic interventions, including Dance Movement Therapy (DMT). Despite growing theoretical and clinical interest in DMT, there remains a lack of empirical research—both in Lithuania and internationally—evaluating its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders among adults, particularly women. Research aim: To explore the lived experiences of women with anxiety disorders during DMT sessions and to assess the impact of this therapy on their psycho emotional well-being. Participants: The study involved 16 women diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Participants were assigned to an experimental and a control group. Methods: The theoretical framework of the study was based on a systematic analysis of relevant scientific literature. In the empirical part, a mixed-methods design was applied. Quantitative outcomes were assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), while qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. Results: Following the DMT intervention, participants in the experimental group showed a statistically significant reduction in anxiety (p<0.001), depression (p=0.008), and stress symptoms (p=0.008). These results differed significantly from the control group, in which no significant changes were observed. Thematic analysis revealed three core themes in participants’ experiences. The body as a reflection of anxiety and a point of support in therapy: Participants learned to recognize the somatic manifestations of anxiety and regulate them through breathing, sensory awareness, and grounding techniques, which enhanced their sense of safety and trust in the body as a reliable resource.Transformations in the relationship with anxiety and the self during therapy: Over the course of therapy, participants shifted from control and perfectionism toward acceptance and authenticity. The group format reduced feelings of isolation and fostered a sense of connection and shared experience. Movement as a means of emotional expression and self-regulation: Movement enabled participants to safely express repressed emotions, supported emotional self-regulation, integrated bodily and cognitive experiences, and surfaced significant memories from early life. Keywords: Dance Movement Therapy, anxiety disorders, psycho emotional well-being, women. |
