The Conflict between Personal Integrity and Societal Expectations: A Psychoanalytic Analysis of Mere Pass Tum Ho

Abstract

This study uses Freudian psychoanalytic theory to analyze the psychological states, internal conflicts, desires, defense mechanisms, and the impact of financial issues on the characters of Mere Pass Tum Ho while exploring how these challenges confront social norms and mental health perceptions in South Asian culture. Data for this study was collected from selected episodes of Mere Pass Tum Ho, aired on ARY Digital, with English subtitles available on YouTube. The focus was on pivotal scenes that highlight the emotional and psychological struggles of the central characters named Danish, Mehwish, Shawar, and Rumi. The key episodes were analyzed and provided a rational view of the psychology of the characters, in addition to how they interrelated. The analysis of the study is framed based on the psychoanalytic theory by Sigmund Freud, particularly in id, ego, superego, and defense mechanisms. Such concepts were used in the interpretation of emotional responses and behaviors of the characters about various situations, especially in scenarios involving moral dilemmas, betrayal, and financial hardship. Results indicate that psychological struggles for characters are strongly determined by the tension between unconscious desires and societal expectations. Financial instability was discovered to intensify the emotional conflicts of the characters, which affected their decisions and relationships. Defense mechanisms such as rationalization, denial, and projection were also observed as coping strategies used by the characters to manage their internal conflicts. The study further recommends the interconnection of psychological, cultural, and social factors like how media narratives reflect and even shape societal values related to mental health.