{"value"=>"<p> <span class=\"title\">Work on Emotional behavior with a Mentally Retarded Client.</span></p> <p>Given the mental deficits of the retarded population, few studies center on their limited emotional expression. This study focuses on a strategy for intervening in the emotional development of retarded children through dance therapy.</p> <p>The literature review includes the biological, cognitive, psychological and socio-cultural aspects of emotional development in the mentally retarded. In addition, a separate section discusses Laban's basic concepts of use of body space and efforts. These form the core for assessing emotions. The sixteen themes which Laban developed as the basis for movement education form the basis for the treatment process.</p> <p>Following is a case study of a 17-year-old mentally retarded girl, including discussions of her biological/physiological state, motor development, psychological development, and her socio-cultural history. Laban analysis is used to describe her emotional functioning. Based on this detailed analysis, a treatment plan was devised to help this client control her temper tantrums, impulses, and to develop a better self-image.</p> <p>Movement themes appropriate to her level of functioning were carefully chosen and evaluated. The process was slow and arduous but there were positive results along each of the above continuum.</p>"}