This study examines the representation of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) experienced by Cath Avery, the protagonist of Rainbow Rowell's Fangirl (2013). Previous studies have predominantly interpreted Cath's psychological condition through psychoanalytic perspectives, with limited attention given to contemporary cognitive approaches. Therefore, this study aims to identify the symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder exhibited by Cath, investigate the psychological and environmental factors contributing to her anxiety, and examine its effects on her personal development, interpersonal relationships, and identity formation. This research employs a qualitative descriptive design using a literary psychology approach. The primary data consist of narrative passages, dialogues, and internal monologues analyzed through textual analysis. The analysis is guided by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) developed by Aaron T. Beck and Judith S. Beck, complemented by Carl Jung's Analytical Psychology. The findings reveal that Cath exhibits major symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder, including fear of social interaction, avoidance behaviour, negative self-evaluation, automatic negative thoughts, and physiological anxiety responses. These symptoms are influenced by emotional dependence on her twin sister, maternal abandonment, and difficulties adapting to university life. Furthermore, her anxiety significantly affects her academic adjustment, social relationships, emotional well-being, and identity development. This study contributes to literary psychology by demonstrating how contemporary fiction realistically represents Social Anxiety Disorder through the integration of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Jung's Analytical Psychology.
Copyrights © 2026