| Abstract [eng] |
This master’s thesis explores the expression of dance movement therapy in fostering congruence among middle-aged individuals. The relevance of the study is grounded in the increasing prevalence of emotional exhaustion, chronic stress, inner tension, and identity-related difficulties commonly experienced during middle adulthood. In this study, congruence is understood as a person’s ability to authentically perceive, experience, and express their inner experiences through the integration of bodily, emotional, and self-related awareness. Research aim – to reveal the expression of congruence among middle-aged individuals in the process of dance movement therapy. The objectives of the study were: 1. To analyze scientific literature examining the application of dance movement therapy for fostering congruence among middle-aged individuals. 2. To investigate how changes in congruence emerge during the process of dance movement therapy among middle-aged individuals. 3. To discuss participants’ experiences related to body awareness, emotional expression, and self-exploration during the dance movement therapy process. A qualitative research design was applied in the study. The research was conducted between November 2025 and May 2026. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews, reflection analysis, and a structured body and movement observation method based on Ognesian (2004). Five middle-aged participants took part in a twelve-session cycle of dance movement therapy. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke (2006; 2021). The findings revealed that at the beginning of the therapeutic process participants experienced emotional overload, inner tension, self-suppression, reduced connection with their bodies, and difficulties recognizing their personal needs. Thematic analysis identified four main themes: lack of congruence, relationship with self and search for identity, increased body awareness during the therapeutic process, and strengthening of congruence. The results demonstrated that increasing body awareness became one of the main mechanisms of therapeutic change. Participants gradually developed a clearer understanding of their emotions and bodily sensations, improved self-regulation abilities, and a more authentic relationship with themselves. Additional findings from the Ognesian observation method revealed increased movement activity, body freedom, spontaneity, emotional expressiveness, and stronger contact with other group members. The findings suggest that dance movement therapy creates conditions for strengthening congruence through the integration of body, emotions, and self-awareness. The group therapeutic environment also contributed significantly to the experience of emotional safety, connectedness, and the development of a more authentic relationship with oneself. Keywords: dance movement therapy, congruence, middle age, body awareness, emotional expression, self-regulation, thematic analysis. |
