education

Emotional Disturbance: A Beautiful Mind (Movie) Est. Time: 2 Hours Viewing/45 Minutes Class

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 Activity

Synopsis John Forbes Nash Jr. is a mathematician who struggles with an emotional distrubance, specifically schizophrenia. The film follows him from his doctoral studies to the later years of his life and career as it documents the effect of this disorder on his personal and professional life.

Activity View the following movie and be prepared to discuss the questions below in class:

Title: A Beautiful Mind (2002) Studio: Universal Pictures

Questions/Discussion Topics 1. What type of emotional disturbance does John Nash, the main character in the film,

experience? 2. Describe how people treat him once they are alerted to his disorder. 3. The typical symptoms of an individual with schizophrenia include trouble distinguishing

reality from fantasy, problems communicating with others, and difficulty maintaining relationships. This film is based on a true story. However, do you believe the portrayals of the character and his relationships are realistic?

4. Do you think John should have been treated differently both medically and emotionally? Please explain and include information on how this could have changed his life.

5. This film contains several scenes depicting treatments that the main character receives in the hospital. Why do you think the filmmakers chose to show these scenes in this manner?

6. Do you think that insulin shock therapy is an appropriate treatment for people with schizophrenia? Explain your answer.

7. What types of supports does John Nash need to lead a successful, “normal” lifestyle?