Psychological Conflicts in Jodi Picoult’s My Sister's Keeper

Abstract

My Sister’s Keeper (2004), by Jodi Picoult, looks at deep psychological problems in the Fitzgerald family. The story is about Anna Fitzgerald, who was conceived through IVF to be a match as a donor for her sister Kate, who has leukaemia. Using Freudian psychoanalysis as a guide, this study looks at the real sacrifices Anna makes, like donating bone marrow and drawing blood, compared to the less tangible loses of her childhood and freedom, which leads to her suing for medical emancipation. Sara, the mother, deals with problems that many moms face. Her id makes her feel like she has to save Kate, but her ego reminds her that she is ignoring Anna and Jesse. At the same time, her superego makes her feel guilty for crossing ethical lines. Anna's broken mind causes identity crises, anger, and hate because the pleasure-seeking id, or bodily freedom), the duty-based ego, and the moral superego are all in conflict. Familial relationships add to the stress, with Jesse's leaving bringing to light the emotional needs that aren't being met during the illness. The story is a criticism of bioethics, and it has the themes of strong mental balance and determination. Picoult's multi-perspective structure makes these problems more human, mixing self-preservation and charity and bringing up questions about the rights of individuals and families in medical emergencies.