Abstract

This qualitative, theoretical study explores the intersection of drama and dance/movement therapy as they relate to emotional regulation (ER) in children. While the importance of ER to development has been widely recognized, there have not previously been creative arts therapies methods to assess this phenomenon in children. This research study aims to shed light on the diverse mind-body processes informing ER in children and how integrative approaches from drama and dance/movement therapy can be potentially useful in ER assessment. Integrating language from dance therapy movement observation into drama therapy assessment methods is an attempt to address the physiological expression of emotion by recording a child’s movement patterns in a more clear and concise manner. Included in this study is a review of the various socioemotional, psychological and physiological factors influencing ER, and a template for an assessment tool that clinicians may use as a springboard to enhance their overall assessment of ER processes in children.