Understanding group shaping. Transcontextual metapatterns in dance movement psychotherapy

Abstract

Spontaneous choreographies emerge during Dance Movement Psychotherapy group sessions. Metapatterns are considered as metaphorical Gestalts, signs of natural norms, named and categorised as systems. They imply forms and functions. They are present throughout all modes of existence. This paper explores how this concept can be applied to understanding the shape and shaping process of group dynamics in Dance Movement Therapy Sessions.

Keywords:

• Metapatterns
• spontaneous choreographies
• shape shaping
• embodied meaning
• group dynamics
• dance movement psychotherapy