Authenticity: A dramatherapeutic reflective exploration using Authentic Movement with childcare workers in a group of foster care homes in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

ABSTRACT This research investigated the use of Authentic Movement as an explorative tool with childcare workers in a group of foster care homes in Johannesburg, South Africa. It asked if childcare workers would be receptive and responsive to Authentic Movement and if Authentic Movement could be of benefit to them, especially in the reduction of stress, work-life integration, and the prevention of burnout. Authentic Movement is a self-directed movement practice that occurs in the presence of a witness. Goldhahn (2015:57) states Authentic Movement has often been limited to the white educated middle class due to cost and availability. This study wanted to extend Authentic Movement’s reach to a new community and demographic. Four workshops were designed using a dramatherapeutic framework to enhance access to Authentic Movement and provide extra containment. The childcare workers engaging in the workshops embarked on a journey of self-discovery and embodied consciousness through Authentic Movement. The research concluded Authentic Movement helped the childcare workers by relieving stress in their bodies and mind, helping them develop an awareness of their emotions, providing the ability to express themselves (authenticity), increasing work-life integration and increasing their connection with others in the group. The research noted that participants’ bodies initially engaged in dynamic stretching during Authentic Movement, but also explored gestures, story, and expression through their bodies. The researcher also acknowledged how the dramatherapeutic frame of the workshops using aspects of the Sesame approach assisted in receptivity and containment in the workshops, and possibly to Authentic Movement. This research, therefore, supports the use of Authentic Movement in mental wellness programs, personal and professional development, and self-care practices for childcare workers and those in helping professions in South Africa and beyond as a way of caring for the carer.