A comprehensive analysis of mental illness and neurological dysfunction in Tamil cinema: A questionnaire-based survey and its outcomes

Abstract

Background

Mass media significantly shape public perceptions, and Tamil cinema (Kollywood) plays a vital role in this cultural narrative. However, it often perpetuates stereotypes associated with mental illness, contributing to stigma and misunderstanding within society. Given the growing influence of cinema, it is essential to examine how psychiatric conditions are represented in Kollywood films and the impact these portrayals have on public perception.

Methodology

The study analyzed Tamil-language films from the past four decades that depicted psychiatric illnesses. A Google search was conducted to compile a list of relevant Kollywood movies. Each film was then screened and evaluated based on character demographics, exhibited symptoms, diagnoses, and the scientific accuracy of these portrayals. A total of twenty-eight films from the last 45 years were analyzed. Additionally, a questionnaire-based survey was administered to the general public to assess perceptions of mental illness and neurological dysfunction as depicted in Tamil cinema.

Results/Discussion

The analysis revealed that most characters with mental health issues were portrayed as middle-aged, unmarried, employed, and from affluent backgrounds. The most commonly depicted symptom was aggression, and the dominant diagnosis presented was psychopathy. These portrayals often showed a decline in the characters’ mental health over time. Survey responses indicated that such cinematic depictions significantly influence audience perceptions, reinforcing negative stereotypes and contributing to the social stigma surrounding mental illness.

Conclusion/Perspectives

The study highlights the critical role of Kollywood in shaping societal attitudes toward mental health. The recurring inaccuracies and dramatized portrayals in films can perpetuate misinformation and reinforce stigma. By drawing attention to these trends, this research calls for more accurate, sensitive, and responsible representations of mental illness in Tamil cinema, with the potential to foster awareness, empathy, and destigmatization in the broader public consciousness.