Gia Marie Carangi's Life

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Recommended: Insecure attachment in adolescents

Human sexuality is a motivation. It is dominated by a range and interplay of many factors, which

effects every single human being; both negatively and positive. Dubbed the worlds first American

supermodel, Gia Marie Carangi became a well known name in the fashion industry in the early 1980s.

She is particularly remembered today for battling drug addiction, and HIV, which would eventually

lead to her young demise. The biographical film Gia (1998), allows for further comprehensive insight

towards her downfall and enlightening, by highlighting important experiences and people involved in

her life. Most importantly, the film increases the viewers understanding into Gia's attachment style,

gender role behavior, and love style; which contribute to her instability.

Early scenes in the film support developmental psychologist, Mary Ainsworths theory of the impact

of attachment styles on intimate relationships. Through her “Strange Situation” procedure, emerged

three attachment styles a child may experience: securely attached, insecurely attached, and anxious

ambivalent. These attachment styles are then carried on into adult years. As a child, Gia was securely

attached to her mother, Kathleen. Gia's mother was her primary attachment figure, she relied on her for

support, trust, availability, soothing, and to respond to her needs. As a result, Gia was happy, confident,

and felt safe, because her mother was able to provide for her. After a late night physical quarrel

between Kathleen and her husband, Gia's mother moves out of their home and abandons her children.

This scene makes it clear that Gia was affected by her mothers abandonment. Also, a victim in-between

an un...

... middle of paper ...

...The love between Linda and

Gia was short lived due to many issues, including drug abuse. Gia's self worth came from being loved

by Linda, rather than inner satisfaction. Forced commitment from both women became a primary goal

in the relationship.

“Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.”

"Great spirits have often overcome violent opposition from mediocre minds." Albert Einstein , (1879-1955)

CHARACTER ANALYSIS: GIA MARIE CARANGI 6

References

Christofer, M. (Director), & Ginsburg, D. (Producer). (1998). Gia [DVD]. United

States: HBO Home Video.

Crooks, R. & Baur, K. (2011). Our Sexuality. (11th ed.). United States: Cengage Learning.

CHARACTER ANALYSIS: GIA MARIE CARANGI 4

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