A Community That Dances Never Dies: An Ethnographic Study on People of the African Diaspora Within the African Dance and Drum Community in Chicago
Year: 2014
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This ethnographic study explored the possible innate healing properties and therapeutic aspects of West African dance within a public community setting for people of the African diaspora, specifically the African dance and drum community of Chicago. The study was conducted to identify a possible means for preventative work, explore the unique mental health needs of African Americans and expand the understanding of dance/movement therapy concepts outside of the clinical setting. The study revealed the usefulness of West African dance as a means to connect African Americans to their heritage of physical, mental, and spiritual healing. A narrative analysis of informal interviews, in-depth interviews, and participant observations established seven major categories in which West African dance was influential. The categories were condensed into three unique healing and therapeutic properties: emotional regulation, maintaining presence, and addressing diasporic stressors. The results suggest for the integration of West African dance, dance/movement therapy, and preventative programming for African Americans, as well as implications for future studies. 82 pages.
Author: Ifetayo Kitwana
Language: English
Subfield: Visual Arts and Performing Arts
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2891475005