Beyond the Face and Words: How the Body Speaks

Abstract

This case study presents a microanalysis of interactions of one mother-infant dyad videotaped at four and fourteen months, in the Project for Mothers, Infants, and Young Children of September 11, 2001. It provides an intriguing window into the infant's experience within the context of loss and trauma. The observational method utilizes the D.A.N.C.E. tool developed by this author and the Laban movement analysis system. The integrated rhythms of the actions, the timing of gestures and the spatial shifts of posture comprise each individual's core choreography in the dance of relating.