Holden Caulfield Ptsd

The Abyss of Mental Instability In the novel Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger assembles a compelling story about a boy struggling with adolescence and maturity. Holden Caulfield, the main protagonist and narrator, journeys for three days unaccompanied in the rough streets of New York. Throughout his brief excursion Holden begins to exhibit strong signs of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Holden’s PTSD finds its roots with the death of his beloved brother, Allie. His parents did not offer enough support after Holden’s brother died, only causing his condition to worsen. In the year 1946, Holden’s psychological issues commenced when Allie lost his battle with leukemia. Holden’s initial reaction was breaking every window in his

Throughout the novel, Holden was shown isolated from others and no longer enjoying activities he used to. His sister notices this and tells Holden, “Because you don't. You don't like any schools. You don't like a million things. You don't” (Salinger 220). This displays the loss of interest Holden experienced because of his deteriorating mental health. Holden never made an effort in school to pass classes either. Those are all major signs of someone having PTSD. The last of the three most significant symptoms is agitation, a trait Holden expressed quite often. For example, on his date with Sally Hayes, Holden could not enjoy watching the show and instead made remarks about the phony characters. In addition to the common symptoms Holden also displays atypical ones. Some examples are depression, sleep deprivation, alcohol abuse, and hopelessness. The parents of Holden play a significant role pertaining to his mental state. When Holden was just thirteen, Allie passed. According to Mayo Clinic “you’re more likely to develop PTSD if you're lacking a good support system of family and friends”. That was exactly the case for Holden. His parents were going through great grieving themselves and neglected their child in a time of need. That resulted in Holden not getting the support and attention necessary for him to fully grow mentally. Holden mentions his mom's position a few times, saying she “still isn’t over my brother Allie yet” (Salinger