The Catcher in the Rye Essay Graphic organizer
Name: _____________________________________
You Be The Shrink
Essay Prompt: As evidenced in the outside framework of the novel, Holden is telling his story to a psychoanalyst in a “rest home” in California.
What leads Holden to a mental breakdown and enter a “rest home”? What specifically seems to be Holden’s psychological problems? What traits does
he exhibit? Does Holden belong in a “rest home?” Why or why not?
Your task: You are the admitting psychiatrist at the mental hospital where Holden is admitted. You have just listened to
Holden’s whole story. You must do a thorough job filling out the patient admission form. You are to chart Holden’s
demise/breakdown (you must use textual evidence to support your claims) and come up with a treatment plan for Holden so he
can be a successful citizen in the community. Be creative.
Overview: This graphic organizer is to help prepare you for your character sketch essay of Holden Caulfield to the prompt
above. Be as specific as possible and use your novel to support your claims/ideas.
Due: __________________________
Points Possible: 30
Patient Data
Name _______________________________ Resident of ____________________________________________
Last
First
City
State
Age________Year of birth___________ Present school ______________________________________________
Height ____________Weight __________Hair color ________ Level of education _________________________
Causes: What are some things that lead Holden to see a psychoanalyst at the end of the novel? (try to come up with 8)
1.
5.
2.
6.
3.
7.
4.
8.
Physical Symptoms
(Characteristics/signs of a disease/disorder)
Evidence/Support
Page #
Mental/Emotional Symptoms
(characteristics/signs of a disease/disorder)
Evidence/Support
Page #
Recent Trauma: What do you think was the final event that brought Holden to see a psychiatrist? Why?
Diagnosis (conflict): What is Holden having trouble with? Think about the main idea/theme of the novel for this.
Holden _________________________________________________________________________________
Versus __________________________________________________________________________________
Treatment Plan: What do you suggest/recommend Holden should do in order to become healthy? What are some things you would advise him?
1.
2.
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4.
5.
Release Patient When… It is ok to release Holden out of the “rest home” when Holden demonstrates he…
After-Care Requirements: When Holden leaves the mental hospital he will have to continue/do the following to make sure
he does not relapse…
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.