M183. Single-Session Dance/Movement Therapy for Thought and Behavioral Dysfunction Associated With Acute Schizophrenia: A Mixed Methods Feasibility Study

Abstract

Background Dance/movement therapy (DMT) interventions have been used to support people with schizophrenia; however, these typically include lengthier interventions. Current inpatient hospitalization lengths of stay do not offer the time needed to implement such interventions. The current treatment protocol for people in acute phases of schizophrenia is psychopharmacological; however, high rates of medication nonadherence and limited effects on negative symptomatology suggest the need for complementary psychosocial treatment options. The purpose of this study was to determine: feasibility of protocol completion, feasibility of measurement sensitivity, and the effects of a single-session DMT intervention compared to a single-session verbal treatment as usual (TAU) intervention. Methods This mixed methods feasibility study utilized a convergent mixed methods feasibility design. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected simultaneously in a single phase from the experimental and control groups. In this study, the quantitative strand was prioritized and constituted most of the data collection. A qualitative strand was added to enhance the understanding of participants’ experiences of the intervention and control conditions. Thirty-two participants were randomized to a 45-minute DMT session or a 45-minute verbal TAU session. Quantitative data were collected using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, and qualitative data through semi-structured interviews. Results indicated that participants in the DMT intervention group had statistically significant symptom reduction versus those in the TAU group in overall BPRS scores (p < 0.001), Psychological Discomfort (p < 0.001), Negative Symptoms (p = 0.007), and Positive Symptoms (p = 0.003). No statistical significance was shown for Resistance. Qualitative findings substantiate the quantitative findings, however, show divergence regarding Resistance. Participants in the DMT group expressed feeling more in control, less angry, and motivated for continued treatment. Discussion These findings suggest that a single-session DMT intervention can alleviate symptoms associated with acute schizophrenia including affective regulation, and positive and negative symptomatology such as isolation, spontaneity, interpersonal skills, paranoia, and auditory hallucinations. Psychosocial interventions may be used in tandem with psychopharmacological interventions to support increased stabilization for patients experiencing acute phases of schizophrenia.

Dance/movement therapy as a holistic approach to diminish health discrepancies and promote wellness for people with schizophrenia: a review of the literature

“…Research has shown a direct relationship between feelings of social exclusion with negative neurobiological responses (Lincoln et al, 2021;Metzl & Roberts, 2014). Beyond medical care, researchers have often excluded individuals with schizophrenia from their studies due to the presence of positive symptomatology or an exacerbation of symptomatology indicating they may be unable to manage the intervention or treatment (Biondo et al, 2021). This prevents people with schizophrenia from informing, testing, and responding to possible treatment protocols that could provide them with more effective care.…”

“…People with schizophrenia often have specific care needs due to movement dysregulations that are associated with their diagnosis (Biondo et al, 2021;Davis, 2019). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) notes macro-level movement dysregulations such as holding bizarre postures or grossly disorganized movements (American Psychological Association [APA], 2013); however, there are many more subtle and disruptive bodily disturbances associated with schizophrenia including movement fragmentation, unsynchronized movement, subtle and bizarre facial expressions, or limited ability for spontaneous movements or gestures (Biondo et al, 2021;Davis, 2019).…”

“…The inequities they face include both physical (Moore et al, 2015;Sølvhøj et al, 2021) and mental health care (Ivanova, 2021;Metzl & Roberts, 2014;Rössler, 2016), and contribute to a decrease in general wellbeing and thus quality of life. People with schizophrenia have specific and additional needs due to their complicated symptomatology inclusive of body-based dysregulations (Biondo et al, 2021;Davis, 2019;Klaver & Dijkerman, 2016). Dance/movement therapists have foundational knowledge rooted in embodied, trauma-informed, nonverbal psychotherapeutic practices (Homann, 2020;Koch, 2017).…”

“…Dance/movement therapists have foundational knowledge rooted in embodied, trauma-informed, nonverbal psychotherapeutic practices (Homann, 2020;Koch, 2017). Through a strengths-and body-based approach, dance/movement therapy (DMT) surpasses traditional verbal communication, establishing inclusion for many forms of preferred communication styles (Biondo et al, 2021). Joining through movement facilitates increased attunement, which is a necessary component to foster self-regulation and encourage healthy interpersonal skills.…”

Dance/Movement Therapy and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: A Reflection of Clinical Practices and History

“…Advancement of various antipsychotic medications have proven effective in lessening positive symptoms of schizophrenia, however, there are still indications for the need for complementary psychosocial treatment options. Research indicates that there are high levels of medication non-adherence rates associated with antipsychotic medication regimes due to many factors including: (1) difficulty obtaining the medication due to financial and accessibility concerns; (2) undesirable side effects; (3) stigmatization associated with taking antipsychotic medication; and (4) limited effects on negative symptoms of schizophrenia [19,20].…”