Movement Heals: Exploring the intersection of dance, science, and medicine in childhood obesity
Abstract
With societal trends promoting poor nutrition and decreased activity, the prevalence
of obesity in the United States has increased at an alarming rate within the past
two decades, particularly in children and adolescents (Nemet, 2005). Obese children
have many physical health issues (e.g. high cholesterol and blood pressure), which
put them at risk for other leading causes of death, including heart disease, diabetes,
and cancer. In addition to physical consequences, obese children also often suffer
from psychological effects such as low self-esteem, negative body image, and depression
(Marcus, 2013). Many studies have validated the efficacy of dance and dance therapy
in treating the physical and psychosocial issues associated with other chronic illnesses
(e.g. cancer, mental illness, psychosomatic disorder). However, few studies have assessed
the impact of dance interventions in obese patients who experience many of the same
physical and psychological issues. The goal of my Senior Distinction Project was examine
if dance classes could positively affect aspects of physical and psychosocial health
for children with obesity. I worked with Bull City Fit, a community-based wellness
program that seeks to address weight-related health problems for children. My thesis
paper details the conception, development, and implementation of my intervention as
well as a reflection on the outcomes and insights gained throughout the process.
Type
Honors thesisDepartment
DancePermalink
https://hdl.handle.net/10161/9260Citation
Pham, Rebecca (2014). Movement Heals: Exploring the intersection of dance, science, and medicine in childhood
obesity. Honors thesis, Duke University. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10161/9260.Collections
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