Psychology and 'Forrest Gump'

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer introduces and analyzes the film 'Forrest Gump', directed by Robert Zemeckis. Specifically, the writer examines the character of Forrest Gump as it relates to human development and psychology. The writer notes that Forrest Gump's character in the film displays several characteristics of psychology, including emotion, naivete, adult development, limited IQ, behavior and adaptation. The writer points out that Forrest Gump also displays learning and conditioning and of course, personality and social and moral development. The writer concludes that psychologically, Forrest is simple-minded and has a low IQ, and yet, he seems more compassionate, caring, and innocent than just about any other adult could ever be.

From the Paper:

"Forrest's innocence is like that of a child, which also helps make him more emotional than many adults even think of being. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and is never afraid to show someone how he feels, such as the time he sees Lt. Dan after the war, and is so incredibly happy to see him that he can hardly contain himself. Forrest is like that, he is not ashamed of his emotions and in that, he is like a child, always at wonder about the world around him, and not afraid to show it. This is another aspect of his psychology that is endearing and at odds with most adults. Forrest has the innocence and trust of a child, and so, he makes the audience look at their own cynicism and bitterness and question it. The character is deceptively simple, because in his simplicity and honesty he creates questions and wonder in the audience, and perhaps brings them to question their own emotions and innocence (or lack of it). He never sees the bad in a situation, only the good, and this makes him endearing, and someone to emulate, as well."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Finerman, W. (Producer), & Zemeckis, R. (Director). (1994). Forrest Gump. [Motion picture]. USA: Paramount Pictures.

More papers on Psychology and 'Forrest Gump':

• Film Review # 138503 : "Forrest Gump"'s Version of US History"
• Analytical Essay # 124193 : "Fate in "Forrest Gump"
• Comparison Essay # 5731 : "Why Forrest Gump is so Happy"

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