JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE
Vol 8, No 1: May 2026

Exploring Psychopathic Traits in David Leslie Johnson’s Film Orphan

Pardi, Pardi (Unknown)
Muthia, Nadhira (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines psychopathic traits through the behavior of the protagonist, Esther, in David Leslie Johnson's movie Orphan (2009), using Hare's (1999) psychopathy framework. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, with data collected through detailed observation of Esther's actions and interactions in the film. The findings indicate that Esther exhibits core psychopathic traits, including a lack of empathy, poor behavioral control, and manipulativeness. She demonstrates emotional detachment and indifference to the suffering of others, responds impulsively to provocation, and deceives those around her to gain trust and influence. These behaviors reveal a profound disregard for moral and social norms, highlighting that psychopathy can be hidden behind an outwardly innocent appearance. This study contributes to the growing intersection between literary criticism, film studies, and psychological analysis by demonstrating how cinematic narratives can reflect clinically recognized personality disorders. The study underscores the importance of critical evaluation and vigilance in assessing individuals, as external appearances may not reflect underlying psychological dispositions.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

journaloflanguage

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Language (JoL) is an open access and a peer reviewed scientific journal covering research reports in linguistics, literature or language teaching, and critical evaluations of books on the related areas published by Faculty of Literature, Islamic University of North Sumatra (UISU), Medan, ...