Anxiety And Self-salvation-On The Neurotic Personality In The Brief Wondrous Life Of Oscar Wao

Junot Diaz,a renowned Dominican-born American writer,has received widespread acclaim for his literary work.His Pulitzer Prize-winning novel,The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao,chronicles the Oscars’ struggle to find love and survive in a society that lacks both love and security.This thesis explores the causes,manifestations,and development of neurotic personalities depicted in the novel through a careful analysis of Karen Horney’s theory of neurotic personality.According to Horney’s theory,basic anxiety is the driving force behind neurosis.In the novel,Beli,Lola,and Oscar all experience anxiety due to a lack of love and security caused by various factors,including distorted parent-child relationships,traditional Dominican male chauvinism culture,and the cultural dilemma faced by immigrants.To cope with their anxiety,they develop a variety of neurotic needs,resulting in the formation of specific neurotic personalities.Beli,an aggressive personality,seeks power and wealth and adopts the defense strategy of moving against people.Oscar,a submissive personality,desperately seeks love and adopts the defense strategy of moving toward people.Lola,a detached personality,avoids confrontation and adopts the defense strategy of moving away from people.The key to treating neurosis is identifying and resolving inner conflicts.Beli fails to resolve her anxiety,resulting in tragic consequences such as hopelessness and sadistic trends.However,Lola and Oscar successfully overcome their inner conflicts,correct their neurotic personalities,and rid themselves of neurosis by actively pursuing their true selves and affirming their self-worth.This thesis highlights that individual environment and cultural contradictions can significantly impact personality formation and development.Neurotic individuals must confront their inner conflicts,reassess their self-worth,and establish harmonious relationships with others.Society should also prioritize individual needs and mental health,creating an inclusive environment where everyone can fulfill their potential and contribute to a lovely,harmonious,and prosperous society.