Psychologist Breaks Down the Success of 'Inside Out 2' on Short Wave Podcast by NPR

Entertainment | June 19, 2024, 8:25 a.m.

Pixar's latest film, Inside Out 2, delves into the complexities of anxiety, particularly in the context of adolescence. As Riley navigates the challenges of puberty, new emotions like Envy and Embarrassment disrupt her core emotions, leading to a realistic portrayal of anxiety and panic attacks. Psychologist Lisa Damour, a consultant for the film, applauds its accurate depiction of anxiety as a natural, protective human emotion. She highlights the importance of grounding techniques, like touching objects, and cognitive interventions to manage anxiety levels. The film's portrayal of Riley overcoming her panic attack through self-soothing and cognitive interventions serves as an important reminder that anxiety is a normal emotion that can be managed. Overall, Inside Out 2 succeeds in shedding light on anxiety in a relatable and educational manner.