Interpersonal Conflict in Film

A relationship that looks successful does not necessarily reflect its quality.
The fact is they require a lot of nurturing. And the reward must be greater than the costs associated with maintaining that relationship; otherwise roiling emotions and discord can exasperate the situation, causing irreparable damage that may lead to its demise. I have selected a scene from the movie American Beauty that represents interpersonal conflict handled ineffectively. Then I will explain how the same scenario could have unfolded if dealt with constructively.
In the film, American Beauty, there is a scene where Colonel Fitts is driving his son, Ricky to school. Fitts is consequently disturbed by a welcome gift and greeting from his gay neighbors and asks his son “How come these faggots always have to rub it in your face? How can they be so shameless?” Ricky replies, “That’s the whole thing, Dad. They don’t feel like it’s anything to be ashamed of.” Fitts replies, “Well it is.” Then with a familiar disposition of appeasement, Ricky replies, “Ya, you’re right.” “Don’t placate me like I’m your mother boy.” “Forgive me sir for speaking so bluntly, those fags make me want to puke my guts out.” “Me too son, me too.” (Cohen & Mendes, 1999)
It is quite clear that communications between father and son is stunted by the father’s oppression. He holds his son emotional hostage by subconsciously appealing for the answer that best appeases his own repression. The most important characteristic of a deep interpersonal relationship is the self-disclosure of our innermost thoughts and feelings. (Sole, 2011) The relationship, at this point, is essentially a one-way street, because self-disclosure is only allowed for the father.

In this case, interpersonal communication is handled ineffectively because Ricky’s imposed inability to share how he truly