Sensory language (SDM) as a tool in the creation of a body cognizant social worker

ABSTRACT

There is growing evidence that being comfortable in one’s body is a necessary foundation for the reflection required to cope with complicated situations. Movement activity based largely on nonverbal communication can help social workers deal with complex feelings and problems that arise among their clientele.

Based on preliminary research results, the Sherborne Developmental Movement (SDM) model was embedded in a course given to MSW students. In the study, the course module sought to assess the contribution of sensory communication to MSW students’ self-conscious awareness of themselves and their clients.

The participants were 19 MSW students, men and women of varied cultures who wrote a thematically analyzed reflective diary.

The SDM model contributes to body cognizance in social work by reprogramming self-consciousness through movement. Movement activity seemed to position particpants to experience how body awareness allows a more intimate means of communication with and understanding of their inner world.

KEYWORDS:

• Body Cognizant Social Worker
• nonverbal communication
• SDM Model
• movement Activity
• MSW curriculum

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ofra Walter

Ofra Walter is a senior lecturer in Tel Hai Academic College and was the Chair, Department of Education. She previously served as head of Education Through Art program in the Department of Education and as the head of the Departmant of Early Childhood Education and was a tutor and pedagogic instructor of early childhood student teachers and kindergarten teachers. She developed educational academic projects and community guidance. Walter served as as an academic advisor in Israel, the U.S. and England. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Raskin (England) from 2007. Frequently participates in conferences worldwide and invited lectures at conferences in Israel and abroad. Has published book chapters and articles Focusing on; Subjective well being, emotional intelligence spirituality and self compassion.

Vered Shenaar-Golan

Vered Shenaar-Golan – Earned her PhD in Philosophy from the University of Haifa (Israel), the Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences. She is a lecturer in the School of Social Work at Tel-Hai Academic College and the Head of the management and consulting Studies Program of M.S.W. program at Tel-Hai Academic College. Her expertise in research and teaching is in the fields of social work socialization, community work and social work with groups.