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Wei-Shan Chang, National Changhua University of Education, TaiwanAbstract
Objective: This study applies the framework of Jungian psychology and techniques of fairy tale analysis to examine the animated film Suzume as a case for exploring the inner world and healing process of trauma survivors. Method: Using the “holistic-content” approach of narrative inquiry, this study analyzes the protagonist Suzume’s physical and emotional responses at various stages after experiencing trauma, as well as the self-healing life story she demonstrates throughout the film. Results: The narrative of this animated film vividly illustrates the Jungian psychological process of self-healing in trauma survivors: (1) Developing a persona to survive in the aftermath of trauma; (2) Encountering dream imagery that carries personal trauma and loss; (3) Understanding the inevitability of trauma through collective unconscious memories; (4) Confronting opposing forces and gradually developing the courage to face trauma; (5) Integrating the powers of light and shadow, achieving self-transcendence, and accepting and recognizing oneself post-trauma. Conclusion: From the perspective of Jungian psychoanalysis, trauma survivors experience inner and outer imbalances and emotional flashbacks. Through resonating with the shared memory of trauma and integrating both pain and courage, trauma can be given new meaning. This study suggests that animated films grounded in Jungian psychology can guide trauma survivors in self-healing, and provide trauma-informed practitioners with a diverse, cross-disciplinary medium to support survivors in a more dynamic and empathetic way.
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Conference: ECAH2025Stream: Media
This paper is part of the ECAH2025 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Chang W. (2025) Exploring Self-Healing in Trauma Survivors Through the Animated Film Suzume: A Jungian Psychoanalytical Perspective ISSN: 2188-1111 – The European Conference on Arts & Humanities 2025: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 345-353) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2188-1111.2025.29
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2188-1111.2025.29
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