Deciphering Psychological Disorders in “The Shining”: Jack Torrance’s Struggle with Schizophrenia
Stanley Kubrick’s classic horror film, “The Shining,” is a cinematic masterpiece renowned for its eerie atmosphere and compelling characters. Among these characters, Jack Torrance, portrayed by Jack Nicholson, stands out as a prime example of the complexities of human psychology. In this article, we delve into the intricate portrayal of mental illness in “The Shining,” specifically focusing on Jack’s character and the signs of Schizophrenia.
Understanding Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms, as outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). These symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, catatonic behavior, and negative symptoms like avolition.
One of the hallmark symptoms of Schizophrenia is hallucinations, where individuals perceive things that are not present in reality. In the film, Jack Torrance vividly interacts with a bartender named Lloyd, who appears to serve him drinks, even though the hotel is otherwise empty. This hallucinatory experience is a clear indicator of his disturbed mental state.
Delusions, another key feature of Schizophrenia, are false beliefs that are not…
