The emotions of the main character in Kusdina Ain’s novel 7 Our Family
A literary psychology study
Abstract
This study examines the emotional dynamics of the main character in a dysfunctional family, particularly in relation to loss, emotional neglect, and emotional abuse, as represented in Kusdina Ain’s novel 7 Our Family. The main problem of this research is how the classification of the main character Razi’s emotions reflects the trauma caused by loss, emotional neglect, and emotional abuse in Kusdina Ain’s novel 7 Our Family. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method using content analysis within a literary psychology framework based on David Krech’s theory of emotional classification to identify, categorize, and interpret narrative passages, dialogues, and actions representing Razi’s emotions. The findings indicate that Razi’s emotional experiences are dominated by persistent negative emotions, particularly grief, fear, and guilt. These emotions emerge as a response to rejection from his siblings and the internalization of the stigma that labels him as a bad luck charm. Furthermore, the dysfunctional family environment shapes Razi’s self-concept as a burden within the family. As a result, he develops emotional survival strategies characterized by self-suppression and self-sacrifice. This study contributes to the development of literary psychology studies by examining how childhood trauma related to loss, emotional neglect, and emotional abuse shapes the main character’s emotional experiences and self-concept in the novel.
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