Psychomotor therapy targeting anger and aggressive behaviour in individuals with mild or borderline intellectual disabilities: A systematic review |
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Authors: | Tina Bellemans Robert Didden Jooske T van Busschbach Pim T A P Hoek Mia W J Scheffers Russell B Lang |
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Institution: | 1. Department Movement, Health and Wellbeing, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, Zwolle, the Netherlands;2. Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, the Netherlands;3. Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, the Netherlands;4. Trajectum, Zwolle, the Netherlands;5. University of Groningen, University Medical Center of Psychiatry, Groningen, the Netherlands;6. Clinic for Autism Research Evaluation and Support, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA |
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Abstract: | Background: Poor anger regulation is considered a risk factor of aggression in individuals with mild or borderline intellectual disabilities. Psychomotor therapy (PMT) targets anger regulation through body- and movement-oriented interventions. This study aims to inform practitioners on efficacy and research-base of PMT in this population. Method: This systematic review evaluated nine studies which met inclusion criteria in terms of participants, intervention procedures, outcomes and certainty of evidence. Results: Seven studies revealed a substantial reduction of aggressive behaviour or anger. Certainty of evidence was rated inconclusive in most cases due to absence of experimental control. Conclusions: We can conclude that body-oriented PMT, involving progressive relaxation and meditation procedure “Soles of the Feet”, is a promising approach. However, the paucity of studies and methodological limitations preclude classifying it as an evidence-based practice. This suggests stronger methodological research and research aimed at PMT’s mechanisms of action (e.g., improved interoceptive awareness) is warranted. |
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Keywords: | Psychomotor therapy body-oriented mild or borderline intellectual disabilities anger aggressive behaviour |
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