Ordinary People in Life, There Are a Essay

Ordinary People

In life, there are a number of conflicts that will affect the way everyone is interacting with each other. Ordinary People is the classical example of this. It is about an upscale family in Lake Forrest, Illinois (i.e. The Jarrett's). They are dealing with the death of their oldest son named Buck. He is represented as a larger than life character, which everyone adores and looks up to. After Buck's death, his younger brother (Conrad) attempts suicide. This is because he blames himself for what happened and has trouble adjusting. His parents (Calvin and Beth) want the family to have a normal life again. (Schwary & Redford, 1980)

However, this does not taken place, as Conrad returns from spending time in a mental hospital (after the attempted suicide) and tries to adjust. In the process, a series of deep ceded conflicts are brought to the surface. This occurs with Calvin trying to connect with his only son and not fully understanding what he is going through. While Beth, desperately wants the family to live the life that it once had prior to Bucks death. Throughout the film, these issues are continually brought to the forefront by showing the strange relationship between the characters and events which are unfolding. The climax occurs on Christmas, when Beth is confronted by Conrad and Calvin. This causes her to leave the family and it forces them to rebuild in the aftermath of these events. (Schwary & Redford, 1980)

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In the movie, there are a number of communication theories that will have an effect on the way the various characters are interacting with each other. The most notable include: interpersonal conflict, cultural differences and contempt for each other. These elements are important, as they are illustrating how conflicts will occur throughout the film. In many ways, they mirror situations that are happening in real life with families who appear to be normal.Yet, underneath it all, they are having tremendous problems. (Floyd, 2008) (Schwary & Redford, 1980)

Interpersonal conflict is when at least two different parties will have incompatible goals and expectations about events unfolding in their lives. This can lead to hostilities and misunderstanding between various parties. As they have different goals and beliefs about what should be happening. It is at this point, when these individuals will begin to argue and show resentment towards one another. If left unaddressed, these emotions will continue to grow until there is a dramatic climax. This is when both sides will have the chance to voice their concerns at each other (out of their anger and frustration). (Floyd, 2008)

In the movie, this is occurring between Conrad, Calvin and Beth. Conrad is angry, because he cannot be what his brother was and feels that his parents do not care or understand him. To make matters worse he feels alienated from his peers and has no one to really talk with about his problems other than his psychiatrist (Dr. Berger). (Schwary & Redford, 1980) (Floyd, 2008)

Calvin wants to connect with Conrad, but does not know how. Moreover, he feels as if he is losing his son and wants to do something to prevent this from happening. This creates interpersonal conflict out of the frustration from not connecting with him or having control over the events which are unfolding. (Schwary & Redford, 1980) (Floyd, 2008)

Beth wants everything to be back to normal (prior to Buck's death). However, this is not happening and she feels angry that Conrad cannot change his attitudes and beliefs. At the same time, she wants to have that sense of closeness with Calvin and Conrad. But, everything is different and she….....