Abnormal Psychology in Movies

06Jan 2022 by

Paper 2: Abnormal Psychology in the Movies
Instructions: Watch a film from the list below that depicts a psychological disorder. In your paper, you must a) provide a comprehensive description of the specific disorder and symptoms; b) discuss the characters (or characters, when relevant) treatment, diagnosis, and prognosis, or discuss why no treatment or diagnosis was given; c) focus on the messages that this movie sends about this disorder or condition; and d) interpret the accuracy of this film, in light of what you have learned about psychopathology. Each section, a through d should be very detailed, at least one full page each. Each section should also have its own subheading, for clear organization of the paper.
Note: do not describe the plot of the movie. This paper is not a movie review. Instead, you are evaluating the accuracy of the films depiction of the disorder, based on DSM criteria. Also, even if you have seen the movie before, re-watch the movie prior to writing the paper so that you can be clear and specific regarding the question prompts above.
At least two sources should be used and referenced in this paper, to verify the criteria for the psychological disorder(s) depicted in the film. Be sure to include an APA-formatted reference page at the end of the paper. Although only one film needs to be chosen, students may want to watch multiple movies to help illustrate the various disorders that they are studying. Movie recommendations will be made throughout the course.

Movie Suggestions: 
Whats Eating Gilbert Grape

Benny & Joon
Silver Linings Playbook
I Am Sam
Cake
Black Swan
Matchstick Men
A Beautiful Mind
Welcome to Me
Girl, Interrupted
As Good As It Gets
Thank You For Your Service
The Aviator
Iris