One of psychological disorders,s explicitly expressed in Caulfield’s behavioral patterns, is post-traumatic stress disorder or PSTD. It “is a serious, potentially debilitating condition that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a life-threatening event” (ADAA 2). In Holden’s case such event was the death of his brother Allie, which appears to be the main trigger of Holden’s psychological performance. Supporting causes may have been James Castle’s death and Mr. Spencer’s illness. The most common symptom for PSTD is constant re-experiencing the trauma by means of “intrusive distressing recollections [and] flashbacks” (ADAA 2) Holden constantly brings up the topic of Allie, even when choosing a free topic for a prompt. Moreover, Caulfield seems not to criticize Allie at all, whereas all the other characters described in the book all have flaws and drawbacks. Another proof is that Holden writes the book, thus comprehensively re-experiencing the trauma, making it a massive flashback. He also feels cut off from everyone, not showing interest in making new friends, which is another symptom. It is also evident that Holden is “ jumpy, easily irritated, and angered,” (ADAA 2) as he constantly swears, answers cynically to any encounter and does not even trust his family, with exception for his little sister.
On the basis of the abovementioned we may also take into consideration Holden’s bipolar disorder. Common symptoms of it are mania, depressive episodes, mood swings, disrupted sleep patterns, social problems, thoughts of self-harm and tendency not to finish tasks (Carey). Mania was consistently present, with bright example of Holden leaving Mr. Spencer house because he thought that the man had some inappropriate intentions. He also displays unreasonable mania in sharing his money, buying people cocktails etc., which leads to him lending money from his little sister, which is excessively irresponsible. Sexual socialization should also be highlighted, as he mistreats and is mistreated by the opposite sex, which leads him to inviting prostitutes, though this experience does not bring pleasure and fulfillment either. The other symptoms are also typical for PTSD and depression, except here we may stress suicidal intentions. Once Holden mentions that he “felt like jumping out the window” (Salinger 27). Another instant that combines mania, suicidal tendencies and reliving the part is an explicitly emotional “payer” of Caulfield, where he asks Allie “don't let [him] disappear” (Salinger 106), when wandering in New York.
Considering typical emotional and behavioral patterns and deviations from psychological norms, a further treatment could be applied. Holden is suggested to systematically take antidepressants, prescribed by psychotherapeutist. Also, the process of cognitive therapy should take place. Meetings from two times per week, with a professional psychologist are necessary for as long as it is needed for a patient to feel relief and interest in life again. Also, meetings with his family members twice a month in terms of counseling them and attaining additional information about patient’s behaviour would be of help. Monthly meetings or reports from Caulfield’s teachers and classmates (the latter is voluntary) could accelerate comprehensive analysis of patient’s progress. The expected time period is 12 month, if the patient does not cause severe disruption. The desired outcome of the treatment is: to overcome the past trauma; to revive Caulfield’s functionality, adequate emotional performance and normalize eating and sleeping schedules; to soften the symptoms of the diagnosed disorders. The treatment plan is to be adjusted during the course of therapy, as it needs to be flexible in terms of Holden’s needs and responsive reactions.
Works Cited
ADAA. “Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD.” <http://www.adaa.org/sites/default/files/ADAA_PTSD.pdf>
WHO. “Depression: A Global Public Health Concern.” WHO Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, 2012. Web. 14 March 2016.
Salinger, Jerome David. The Catcher in the Rye. 1951. <http://www.pu.if.ua/depart/Inmov/resource/file/samostijna_robota/Catcher_In_The_Rye _-_J_D_Salinger.pdf>
Tyrrell, Mark, & Elliott, Roger. “The Depression Learning Path.” The Natural Depression Treatment Program, 2013. Uncommon Knowledge. Web. 14 March 2016.
Carey, Elea. “Common Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.” Healthline Media. Healthline, 25 Aug. 2015. Web. 14 March 2016.
