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The film Steel Magnolias provides a poignant exploration of the psycho-social development of its central character, Shelby. As the only daughter of M'Lynn and Drum Eatenton, Shelby's life journey unfolds amidst health challenges, familial dynamics, and the pursuit of intimate relationships. This essay delves into Shelby's character, examining her development through various stages and the factors that influence her psycho-social trajectory.
Shelby's cinematic journey aligns with Erikson's sixth stage of psycho-social development: Intimacy vs. Isolation. This stage emphasizes the formation of intimate, loving relationships leading to long-term commitments outside the family sphere (McLeod, 2008).
Shelby's narrative unfolds as she embarks on her marriage to Jackson Latcherie, expressing her primary desire to start a family.
This desire propels Shelby into Erikson's seventh stage, Generativity vs. Stagnation, where individuals establish careers, build committed relationships, initiate families, and develop a sense of belonging to a larger context (McLeod, 2008). Despite health advisories against conceiving due to her diabetic condition, Shelby's determination to create a family becomes a driving force.
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“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Her narrative unfolds with a successful nursing career, a harmonious marriage, and the birth of her son, Jackson Jr. However, her untimely demise in young adulthood prevents her from transitioning to stage eight, Integrity vs. Despair.
Shelby encounters several challenges that impede her positive progression through the psycho-social stages. Firstly, her health becomes a significant hurdle as a diabetic, heightening risks associated with complications due to her pursuit of intimate relationships. Secondly, Shelby contends with her mother's controlling influence and lack of support for her decision to have children.
Her mother's openly expressed reluctance hampers constructive discussions about alternative family planning.
The third challenge lies in Shelby's unwavering commitment to giving birth to her own child, disregarding potential consequences. This decision leads to kidney failure and, ultimately, her premature death (Ross, 1989). Shelby's limited involvement in managing her health from childhood is evident. Shielded by her mother, she lacked comprehensive knowledge about diabetes management and its potential dangers. A more engaged approach during childhood might have equipped her with the knowledge and habits necessary for healthier choices and a better understanding of diabetes's potential impact.
Shelby's narrative prompts reflection on the importance of active involvement in health management from an early age. Her sheltered upbringing hindered the development of a cautious approach to her well-being. A more informed and engaged approach during childhood might have equipped her with the knowledge and habits necessary for healthier choices and a better understanding of diabetes's potential impact.
Shelby's choices, particularly her determination to have her biological child despite health risks, reflect a nuanced interplay between personal agency and external factors. While her mother's lack of support is evident, Shelby's own agency in managing her health is a critical aspect of her psycho-social development. The consequences of her decisions underscore the intricate relationship between nature and nurture in shaping one's life journey.
As viewers, we are compelled to consider how a proactive and informed approach to health and familial decisions can contribute to a more resilient and adaptive psycho-social development. Shelby's character serves as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay of individual choices and external influences, urging us to reflect on our roles in shaping our psycho-social trajectories.
Psycho-Social Development in "Steel Magnolias". (2016, Apr 27). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/steel-magnolias-story-analysis-essay
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