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The Psychology of Forrest Gump

 

As such, I agree with Jordan (2013) that Forrest is in the concrete operational stage of Piaget's theory of cognitive development that he can reason logically about concrete events/objects but not in abstract and hypothetical ways as in the formal operational stage. Although physically and mentally challenged, Forrest is raised in a caring environment that fosters his positive values and gracious personality. With his mother's unconditional love and unfailing support, Forrest has smoothly gone through Erik Erikson's first three stages (Hope, Will and Purpose) of psychosocial development and built up "Trust" in particular. Mrs Gump never treats Forrest as a child with special educational needs. She considers him a normal boy and always says "You're the same as everybody else. You are no different." "Don't let anybody tell you they're better than you." She fights desperately for Forrest the same opportunities as everyone else such as trading a sexual favor for enrollment in school (Jonelle, 2012). Forrest adores and trusts his mother very much as shown throughout the movie with his quoting her every 10 minutes or so. All in all, with his mother's devotion and encouragement, Forrest feels safe, secure and confident which help him learn to trust, love and respect others (Kendra, 2014).
             Forrest begins school from the stages of "School Age (Competence)" to "Adolescence (Fidelity)". Obviously, he learns at a slower pace than his peers and is frequently picked on for his learning disability and leg braces. He has trouble making friends but is lucky to have Jenny's care and support such as teaching him how to read and flee from bullies. His running speedily also earns him a chance to graduate from the University. All these help Forrest strengthen his sense of competence bit by bit. Moreover, with the limited understanding of the world around him, Forrest establishes a sense of self through his simplicity and innocence.


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