Breaking barriers: Evaluating an arts-based emotion regulation training in prison

摘要: Abstract Creative arts therapies have long made use of the interconnection between body, emotion, and mind. Movement is intimately intertwined with emotional cognitive functions, role play promotes perspective taking, empathy, interactive competencies. In this pilot study, a pre-/post-test waiting-group design male prison inmates in three German prisons ( n  = 47), we conducted an evaluation movement- drama-therapy based, anti-violence training e|m|o processing® (Lutz, 2008). The action-oriented neuroscience informed method, including movement therapy interventions for handling rage promoting respectful interaction by means Aikido stick fighting practice, enactments. Upon completion training, experimental group reported increase body awareness social competence, experienced distance to their own aggression, higher degree closeness trainer. No changes occurred on anger explicit as well implicit aggression measures. analysis from behavior observations indicated decreased immediate potential expression needs upon termination training. Statements focus groups after improved respect, both among participants relation victims.