The Joy Luck Club

Over the first half of this term, we have discussed pivotal concepts in social work and social theory, including Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological perspective,
life course theory, and Erik Erikson’s eight stages of psychosocial development.
This assignment is a combination of demonstration of mastery of content as well as application of content to the characters/circumstances in the film. All
written assignments require an understanding of theoretical concepts and materials presented in the classroom and readings. This paper is an opportunity
for you to apply what you have been learning this semester.
You are required to view the film “The Joy Luck Club” on your own time. this will be the basis of your midterm paper. The film is available on Netflix, Amazon
Prime as well as on youtube where we believe it is free but that is subject to change and you may need to sign-up to view it.
1. Define Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Perspective including all five (5) levels of systems – making note of each of the systems as they are expressed in the
film.
2. Choose two (2) of the main characters (among the four daughters).
3. Through a multidimensional and life cycle perspective discuss how each system interacts with these characters to inform their functioning and
development. Compare and/or contrast the differences or similarities between the environmental factors of these two characters.
4. Make sure to include the environmental press, the interlocking circles of risk as well as elements of resource and resilience.
5. Include any value conflicts and personal biases that may have emerged for you in viewing the film.
6. You may use any and all required readings as well as 4 additional peer-reviewed journal articles.
Your paper should be an analysis, not a film review. You are expected to apply acquired knowledge to your understanding of the development of the
characters you’ve chosen. This paper is about interlocking systems and the probable systemic impact on your characters’ development. Do not use sources
such as Wikipedia, or sites that provide pseudo educational information. Use professional scholarly journals and textbooks only!