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Cinematic Portrayals of Relational Schema Reconfiguration After Friendship Dissolution
Alharbi, Tala
Alharbi, Tala
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This research analyzes cinematic films as portrayals of relational schema transformation after friendship dissolution. Although friendship breakups are a significant event in the developmental phase of an individual, often forming a disenfranchised grief, this topic receives less research attention in comparison to romantic dissolutions. This paper examines four films as cinematic case studies: The Banshees of Inisherin (2022), Frances Ha (2012), Close (2022), and Booksmart (2019). Following a psychosocial framework, the analysis contrasts growth beliefs (the idea that friendships require effort) with destiny beliefs (the idea that friendships are predetermined). The study examines dissolution catalysts (transgression or circumstance) and dissolution paths (active versus passive). These factors function as narrative stress tests for a character's relationship schema. Results show varied psychological effects, ranging from the collapse of a destiny schema (The Banshees of Inisherin) to an identity-shaping adoption of a growth schema (Frances Ha). These films provide visual representations of psychological distress, showing the adaptation required to manage this unspoken loss. The conclusion addresses the implications of these findings, showing that cinematic stories are an effective medium to understand these psychological processes and may help individuals process their own friendship loss.
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International