OBJECTIVE: This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to investigate the effect of dance in the functionality and psychosocial adjustment of young subjects with cerebral palsy (CP). DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty-six young subjects with CP, GMFCS (Gross Motor Function Classification System) levels from II to V were randomized into two intervention groups: kinesiotherapy and dance (n = 13 each). Twenty-four sessions (1 hour, twice a week) were performed in both groups. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) by International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (iCF) were used before and after each intervention. RESULTS: Dance increased the classification of functioning (p = 0.001), independence function (p = 0.004), self-care (p = 0.01), mobility (p = 0.008), locomotion (p = 0.01), communication (p = 0.02), psychosocial adjustments (p = 0.04), and cognitive function (p = 0.03). Intergroup analysis evidenced significantly greater improvements in classification of functioning (p = 0.0002), independence function (p = 0.0006), self-care (p = 0.01), mobility (p = 0.001), locomotion (p = 0.002), communication (p = 0.0001), psychosocial adjustments (p = 0.002), and cognitive function (p = 0.0001) in dance group. CONCLUSIONS: It was shown that this approach could have an influence on basic common points in the body and motion, including emotional and social aspects, supporting the concept of complex multimodal psychomotor adjustments. Dance promoted enhancement on functionality and social activities regarding psychosocial adjustments in cerebral palsy young subjects.

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