The ensuing paper discusses the family dynamics and interpersonal relationships present in the movie The Help. Most specifically, the relationship between a mother and daughter will be explored. We will begin by providing an overlay of the movie’s characters and basic story line. Following this overview, the writings will delve deeper into the environment, values, and roles that shape the Phelan family. Finally, this paper will provide a comprehensive evaluation the Phelan family’s level of development.
Description of Movie Family The movie The Help is set in the town of Jackson, Mississippi during the 1960’s (Taylor, 2011). This is a time of segregation and injustice with upheaval around the corner. A key family in the movie …show more content…
I believe that this is due to the family keeping the circumstances of Constantine’s unemployment a secret from Skeeter. This secret caused an anxious atmosphere, inhibited familial communications, and decreased expressions of thoughts and feelings (Maryol, n.d.). However, as secrets came to light and feelings were expressed the family’s functional competency moved along to optimal. The family was able to express emotions, enjoy one another, and make their own choices (Maryol, n.d... This competency was well demonstrated by the final conversation between Charlotte and Skeeter (Taylor, 2011). They laughed together, and Charlotte encouraged Skeeter to take a writing job and move to New York.
Summary/Conclusion
The Help takes place in the South, during the 1960’s, and fights for racial equality were forefront. This revolution and upheaval magnifies and furthers the strife within the Phelan family. Mother and daughter struggle with different values and goals in life. These differences lead to dysfunctional communication and poor family relations. However, time and communication allows them to repair their relationship and evolve to an optimal level of functional