Exploring the Entanglement of Toxic Relationships: Literary Insights and Psychological Perspectives in the novel My Year of Rest and Relaxation by OttessaMoshfegh

Abstract

The paper entitled, “Exploring the Entanglement of Toxic Relationships: Literary Insights and Psychological Perspectives in the novel My Year of Rest and Relaxation by OttessaMoshfegh” integrates insights from both literature and psychology. It scrutinizes the protagonist’s struggle with the legacy of a toxic upbringing marked by parental neglect and societal influences, highlighting how early interpersonal interactions shape adult relational patterns and psychological health. Through a close reading of the novel, supported by psychological theories of toxic relationships, the research delineates the profound impact of familial and societal environments on the protagonist’s emotional development. The study also contrasts Moshfegh’s narrative with broader literary works that address toxic relational dynamics, thus situating the novel within a larger discourse on the subject. By employing a multidisciplinary approach, the paper reveals the complex interplay between literary representation and psychological reality, offering a nuanced understanding of the effects of toxic relationships. It advocates for the therapeutic potential of narrative and the importance of an interdisciplinary perspective in addressing the aftermath of such relationships. The findings call for a continued scholarly dialogue that bridges literary analysis and psychological inquiry, contributing to a holistic view of interpersonal toxicity.