Little Monster

At its core, "Little Monster" is a psychological study of how trauma and shame impact one’s ability to resolve conflicts they face. Through Little Monster, I aim to contribute to the growing conversation around mental health, particularly the long-term effects of childhood trauma. The film seeks to raise awareness about the psychological mechanisms individuals use to cope with abuse and the consequences of trauma-induced coping mechanisms no longer help us when we grow up. How young adults survive their childhood domestic abuse trauma, recognize the formation of chronic shame and self-hatred mentality, and learn to build healthy relationships with themselves.

Self-consciousness, in turn, determines how we approach life, whereas consciousness determines behavior, and behavior creates impact, which leads to new consciousness. This can be a virtuous circle or a vicious circle. The unresolved trauma of the past can create a cycle of self-destruction in the present. Jordan’s internal struggle mirrors the difficulties faced by many survivors as they attempt to reconcile their painful histories with the desire to move forward. The Monster serves as a metaphor for the self-sabotaging behaviors that often arise from unresolved emotional wounds. The film hopes to visualize the internal struggle, which fosters a deeper understanding of how trauma shapes identity and behavior.

It is challenging to remain objective when discussing the self, as it's nearly impossible to fully analyze oneself without being emotional. The inability to separate from emotions often clouds judgment, making it difficult to maintain an impartial perspective. However, this doesn’t mean we should detach from our feelings and emotions. Instead, we can learn to use them as a guide, helping us better understand ourselves and harness them as a catalyst for personal growth. As someone who has personally dealt with depression and anxiety, I have dedicated significant time to researching the psychological underpinnings of trauma, particularly through the lenses of psychology and cognitive studies. My experience informs my creative vision for Little Monster, which I hope will resonate with audiences who have faced similar challenges in their journeys.