Cultural representation of mental disorders and people suffering from these disorders in the last two decades of Iranian cinema

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Fereshteh Rezaeiani 1
Elham Fathi 2
Ashraf Sadat Mousavi 3
1 Allameh Tabataba' e University
2 Hazrat-e Masoume University
3 Hazrat-e Masoume
10.22034/jcsc.2024.2027586.2743
Abstract
Background and purpose: The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the image presented of mental disorders and people suffering from these disorders in the last two decades of Iranian cinema. Method: In this regard, a large number of movies were examined using the Purposive sampling method, and finally 14 movies were selected based on the Inclusion criteria. Then the films were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis method deductive approach.

Findings: The results showed that the representation of people suffering from mental disorders in these films is male and limited to the young and upper class of the society. Also, this face is dangerous, unstable, incapable and irresponsible. On the other hand, mental disorders are rarely shown to be treatable in these films. Regarding the family's awareness and support for mental disorders, in 35.71% of the films, the families were aware of the existence of a mental disorder in the person and supported him. But in other films, we saw a negative atmosphere devoid of support and awareness of mental disorder and the person suffering from that disorder, which in many cases made the process of treatment or recovery difficult.

Conclusion: The negative effects of this representation on public culture and finally public mental health were discussed and investigated.

Keywords

Subjects

 
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Cultural Studies & Communication
Volume 20, Issue 75
Summer 2024
Pages 281-300