Personality Disorder in Mommie Dearest

From her glamorous Hollywood career to her tumultuous personal life, Joan Crawford remains an enigmatic figure in the annals of cinema history. One aspect of her life that has been widely speculated upon is the presence of a personality disorder. This essay will explore the depiction of Joan Crawford's personality disorder in the film Mommie Dearest, and how it aligns with the real-life allegations of her being bipolar. By analyzing various aspects of her behavior and relationships, it will become evident that the film portrays Crawford as exhibiting traits consistent with a personality disorder, while also hinting at the possibility of bipolar disorder.

One prominent aspect of Joan Crawford's personality disorder portrayed in Mommie Dearest is narcissism. This disorder is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with oneself, a lack of empathy, and a constant need for admiration. In the film, Crawford displays these traits in her interactions with her children and colleagues. For example, she insists on being referred to as "Mommie Dearest" and demands constant attention and admiration from those around her. This behavior is indicative of narcissistic personality disorder, a condition that aligns with the real-life allegations of Crawford's self-centeredness.

In addition to narcissism, Mommie Dearest suggests that Joan Crawford may have exhibited symptoms of borderline personality disorder. This disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, impulsive behavior, and intense mood swings. Throughout the film, Crawford's relationships with her children and lovers are portrayed as tumultuous and fraught with tension. She frequently oscillates between extreme affection and anger, a trait commonly associated with borderline personality disorder. Furthermore, her impulsive actions, such as the infamous wire hanger scene, indicate a lack of emotional regulation, further supporting the possibility of this disorder.

While Mommie Dearest primarily focuses on the portrayal of personality disorders, it also hints at the possibility of Joan Crawford being bipolar. Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from manic episodes to depressive states. In the film, there are instances where Crawford's behavior aligns with the symptoms of bipolar disorder. For instance, she exhibits moments of excessive energy and euphoria, followed by periods of deep despair. While the film does not explicitly label her as bipolar, these subtle hints suggest a potential underlying mental health condition.

The portrayal of Joan Crawford's personality disorder in Mommie Dearest has broader implications for our understanding of mental health and its impact on individuals' lives. By shedding light on the complexities of personality disorders, the film encourages us to empathize with those who may struggle with such conditions. Additionally, the film serves as a reminder that even individuals in the public eye, like Joan Crawford, are not immune to mental health challenges. This portrayal encourages further exploration and discussion of mental health issues, breaking down stigmas surrounding these conditions.

In conclusion, Mommie Dearest provides a captivating portrayal of Joan Crawford's personality disorder, aligning with the real-life allegations of her being bipolar. Through her narcissistic behavior, tumultuous relationships, and hints of manic and depressive episodes, the film presents a complex and multi-dimensional depiction of her mental health struggles. By exploring these facets, the film prompts us to reflect on the broader implications of mental health and challenges societal stigmas surrounding personality disorders and bipolar disorder. Mommie Dearest serves as a reminder that even the most glamorous figures can be plagued by internal battles, highlighting the importance of compassion and understanding towards those with mental health conditions.