This is my take on Ordinary People and why it may be healing for LW cult survivors. Conrad's PTSD and depression had its roots in Beth's abusive and cold narcissism and only caring about having the appearance of the perfect family. Conrad is her scapegoat as was the congregation to M. I think the movie is healing because eventually the father becomes aware of Beth's evil narcissism and the abuse she inflicts on Conrad and her inability to love anyone but herself. So Beth leaves them and they are better off for it. You are left with impression that the father has insight and he doesn't live in the past and that he and Conrad will now be okay.
In bereavement there is a rebuild self model where one develops personal strength and insight. Beth and M were incapable of change, or develop personal strength or insights as part of their bereavement.
Yes, M is dead. But the blame and shame M put on the congregation for JRS's death was ignorant and wrong. I know there are expats as well as those still in the cult who still adhere to that thinking and maybe they could benefit from therapy or just hearing the truth. JRS died of cancer.
In bereavement there is a rebuild self model where one develops personal strength and insight. Beth and M were incapable of change, or develop personal strength or insights as part of their bereavement.
Yes, M is dead. But the blame and shame M put on the congregation for JRS's death was ignorant and wrong. I know there are expats as well as those still in the cult who still adhere to that thinking and maybe they could benefit from therapy or just hearing the truth. JRS died of cancer.