Psychological Effect of Attitude on the Dyslexic Child: A Critic of the film’ Like Stars on Earth. (Every Child is Special)

Abstract

This work analyses the film ‘Like Stars on Earth. (every child is special), an Aamir Khan production, discussing major characters and how their attitudes contribute to the marring/making of the life of the main charater- Ishan Navasti (Darsheel Safary), a boy with dyslexia. The analysis shows that public disgrace, verbal abuse, rejection, mockery, impatience from parents, teachers and friends are just a few of the challenges a child with dyslexia faces aside the main struggle of difficulty in learning. This makes the child develop traits like extreme stubbornness and truancy as a survival shield, low self-esteem, frustration, fear and total lack of interest in learning. However, relationship of Ishan Navasti with the character Mr. Nicole (Aamir Khan), the temporary Art Teacher, whose consistent show of love, concern, care, encouragement, friendliness, acceptance, appraisals, extra elementary teachings using sensual and participatory methods amongst others built back the boy’s self-esteem, confidence and attitude towards learning. Over time, Ishan got hold of his academic and endowed strengths, he became the school’s icon. The researcher recommends this film for every teacher and parents of children with special needs.

Keywords: dyslexia, attitude and effect.