Interpersonal Communication in Boyz in the Hood

Boyz in the Hood (1991), directed by John Singleton, examines the obstacles that individuals in 1980s Crenshaw, California are forced to face and the struggles endured to overcome them. The film focuses on Tre Styles and Ricky Baker, two friends from different backgrounds who attempt to overcome their struggles together. These obstacles include, but are not limited to, Tre and Ricky's individual and shared socio-economic status, the stigma associated with youths from Crenshaw, and personal life goals and ambitions.

In the film, language helps the viewer understand how the characters view themselves and how they view each other. One term that is used frequently and in a derogatory manner is n-. The term appears to be used as an attempt to subjugate individuals. For instance, when Furious Styles, Tre's father, calls the police after shooting at an intruder, one of the police officers...
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