Holden Caulfield Research Paper

Words: 299
Pages: 2

Holden Caulfield's traumatic journey in The Catcher in the Rye discloses multiple factors that may have influenced the development of bipolar disorder. Holden's younger brother, Allie, died from cancer at a young age, which had a huge impact on Holden's mental health. Holden's immense sadness and inability to cope with Allie's death indicate unresolved trauma, which could lead to symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorder. This tragic experience, combined with the stress of his recurrent expulsions and damaged family relationships, creates the ideal environment for the development of bipolar disorder. Holden's exposure to death and violence, such as witnessing a classmate's suicide, worsens his psychological pain.