Ateneo de Zamboanga University

Living 100 Years of Excellence, Spirituality and Citizenship

1912-2012

COLLEGE OF NURSING


MOVIE: Girl Interrupted

Susanna Kaysen, an 18-year old girl was brought to the Claymoore Hospital after taking
an overdose of aspirin. She denies the accusation from many that she was attempting to
commit suicide, claiming that she was only "trying to make the shit stop". Nurses and therapists
are surprised when Susanna acknowledges that she does not actually want to go to college and
would like to become a writer. She was said to be diagnosed with Borderline Personality
Disorder according to the psychiatrist of the said hospital. It is said to be a cluster B personality
disorder whose essential features are a pattern of marked impulsivity and instability of affects,
interpersonal relationships, and self-image. The pattern is present by early adulthood and
occurs across a variety of situations and contexts. Other symptoms may include intense fears of
abandonment and intense anger and irritability that others have difficulty understanding the
reason for. People with BPD often engage in idealization of others, alternating between high
positive regard and great disappointment. Self-mutilation and suicidal behaviour are common. A
person with a borderline personality disorder often experiences a repetitive pattern of
disorganization and instability in self-image, mood, behavior and close personal relationships.
This can cause significant distress or impairment in friendships and work. A person with this
disorder can often be bright and intelligent, and appear warm, friendly and competent. They
sometimes can maintain this appearance for a number of years until their defense structure
crumbles, usually around a stressful situation like the breakup of a romantic relationship or the
death of a parent.

The cast are Winona Ryder as Susanna Kaysen, Angelina Jolie as Lisa Rowe,
a sociopath. She is charismatic, manipulative, rebellious and abusive. Brittany Murphy as Daisy
Randone, a sexually abused girl with bulimia and OCD who cuts herself. Clea DuVall as
Georgina Tuskin, a pathological liar. Elisabeth Moss as Polly "Torch" Clark, a burn victim. Travis
Fine as John, an orderly with a liking for Susanna. Jared Leto as Tobias "Toby" Jacobs. Jeffrey
Tambor as Dr. Melvin Potts Vanessa Redgrave as Dr. Sonia Wick, Whoopi Goldberg as Valerie
Owens, RN Angela Bettis as Janet Webber, an anorexic. Jillian Armenante as Cynthia Crowley, a
lesbian Joanna Kerns as Annette Kaysen Bruce Altman as Professor Gilcrest Mary Kay Place as
Barbara Gilcrest Ray Baker as Carl Kaysen KaDee Strickland as Bonnie Gilcrest Larry Graeff as
the head grounds keeper. Kurtwood Smith as Dr. Crumble Alison Claire as Nurse Gretta.

When I was watching the film, I thought it would be somewhat of a suspense type
movie. When the movie was almost near the middle I was surprised and puzzled by what
psychological disorders they were experiencing especially Susanna. When we were in level
three, we tried to distinguish the common psychological disorder and its management.
Apparently, when I was watching the film, I could not determine which of the disorders she was
manifesting. It was an amazing experience when I first heard the disorder. I did not imagine
that there is a certain disorder such as that of susanna.

At this point, I realize that I should take care of my body better. I should learn how to
control myself whenever stressors are stressing me a lot. If I get affected a lot by the stress
around me, I may have subject my self to disorders that may affect me and everyone around
me. It is important to helpm oneself recover from the stress thart we ecounter everyday.