# Understanding dance/movement therapy: a qualitative study of Chinese parents of children with autism spectrum disorder

## TL;DR

This study explores how Chinese parents of children with autism perceive and understand dance/movement therapy, a Western therapeutic approach.

## Contribution

The study provides novel insights into the perception of dance/movement therapy by Chinese parents of children with autism in a cultural context.

## Key findings

- Parents showed willingness to try dance/movement therapy despite initial uncertainty.
- Parents observed emotional growth and embodied communication in their children through therapy.
- Therapeutic relationships and daily life extensions of therapy were noted by parents.

## Abstract

This study explored the application of dance/movement therapy (DMT), a therapeutic method originating from the West, in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in China. Specifically, it examined how these children’s parents understood and perceived DMT.

A descriptive qualitative research design was employed. Five Chinese parents of children with ASD participated. Data were collected through three sources: videos of sessions, in-depth interviews, and movement interviews. Data analysis involved coding and categorization, resulting in 158 codes, 48 subcategories, and 14 categories.

Five main themes were identified: (1) Facing the Unknown but Willing to Try, (2) Observing Embodied Communication and Emotional Growth, (3) Witnessing an Unexpected Therapeutic Relationship, (4) Seeing Therapy Extend into Daily Life, and (5) Reflecting on Parenting and Family Changes.

The findings provide foundational insights into how parents of children with ASD perceive DMT in the Chinese cultural context. These results highlight the potential for implementing and promoting DMT in China based on parental perspectives.