Iraqi Youth Dance Project

This paper discusses the process and outcomes of a dance group intervention for Iraqi young people representing a range of Iraqi communities including Assyrian, Mandaean, Chaldean, Kurd,Arab, Christian and Muslim who... [ view full abstract ]

This paper discusses the process and outcomes of a dance group intervention for Iraqi young people representing a range of Iraqi communities including Assyrian, Mandaean, Chaldean, Kurd,Arab, Christian and Muslim who experienced dislocation, prolonged exposure to war and associated trauma.
The potential of dance/movement program is explained through its impact on the core-self and body image. The dance/movement program works on the principle that mind and body co-exist in a state where health of one affects the other.
The 16 sessions program was led by a multidisciplinary team and applied a holistic approach to healing in line with STARTTS model of best practice.
Alongside training in dance, weekly sessions also included time for the group to explore identity and belonging, explore their cultural inheritance such as learning more about different Iraqi musical traditions and costumes, or to discuss issues of concern in daily life, such as helping participants to negotiate cultural and religious restrictions to taking part in dance and public performance.
Post-program evaluation suggests the use of a non-verbal modality provided a readily accessible means by which they could learn about themselves in any given moment without having to engage with painful emotions in a more direct verbal manner which can be overwhelming particularly for refugee children and young people.

“I didn’t dance before, so I learned it. I was surprised. I was surprised of my ability, was thinking that I put so much energy. Because I think that no one is going to dance but when I see everyone shouting and liking the dance I put more energy into the dance” (Participant, IYP)