EXPLORING ABANDONMENT AND ATTACHMENT IN TOY STORY 3

Abstract

Psychology, as the study of human behavior, has core relevance to literary criticism in its engagement with such trauma as abandonment, a formidable influence on relationships and character. In utilizing the attachment theory as the analytical framework, the current research aims to examine how the abandonment trauma of Lotso led to his attachment style and what the ensuing psychological effects of such a style were on his relationships with the other characters of the film Toy Story 3. The study conducts a qualitative descriptive analysis of Lotso’s dialogue, scenes, and plot elements in the film. The findings indicate that Lotso displays a disorganized attachment style, which entails inconsistency, mistrust, and emotional instability. His unresolved trauma is manifested through his manipulative and controlling behavior, which is indicative of extreme anger and feelings of worthlessness. The research concludes that Lotso’s villainous behaviors are a result of his unhealed emotional wounds, offering a nuanced examination of his character beyond the actions of a villain. This study utilizes attachment theory to illustrate the psychological depth of fiction antagonists and the influence of early affective experiences on personality and social behavior.