Why does Carmy call Richie “cousin”?
A REPORT BY CARMY’S PSYCHOLOGIST
The relationship between Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto and Richard "Richie" Jerimovich plays an intricate and significant role in the psychological state of Carmy, offering deep insights into his coping mechanisms and relational dynamics.
Firstly, it is essential to underscore the symbolic role Richie plays in Carmy's life. Richie represents a living link to Carmy's deceased older brother, Mikey, which fundamentally underscores their relationship's emotional depth. After losing Mikey to suicide, Carmy might be experiencing a profound sense of guilt and longing - common reactions in the aftermath of a loved one's suicide. Therefore, Richie's presence serves as a constant, albeit painful, reminder of Mikey, preserving a tangible connection to his deceased brother.
However, this relationship extends beyond mere symbolism. Richie seems to fulfill the role of a surrogate brother for Carmy. In the context of attachment theory, Richie can be seen as a secure base from which Carmy can navigate his emotional landscape, especially in the context of his loss. Carmy's consistent support for Richie, including his willingness to stay overnight at a police station, demonstrates a secure attachment pattern. These patterns reflect the underlying trust and security in their relationship, which can offer Carmy a sense of continuity and emotional stability amidst the chaos of his personal and professional life.
Furthermore, the use of the term "cousin" to refer to each other is noteworthy. This form of address, while highlighting the deep bond they share, also provides a protective distance from the painful reality of Mikey's absence. It allows them to acknowledge their closeness without necessarily confronting the grief associated with their mutual loss fully. In this way, Carmy employs adaptive psychological mechanisms to navigate his grief and build resilience.
Richie's presence in Carmy's life also serves an important role in terms of social support. Evidence from social psychology suggests that strong social networks can help individuals buffer against the negative impacts of stress and adversity. Richie, as part of Carmy's social support system, may help him mitigate the stressors he experiences, both due to his personal loss and the pressures of taking over his family's business.
Overall, the Carmy-Richie relationship is multifaceted, serving various psychological functions for Carmy, including acting as a grief conduit, a source of secure attachment, and a fundamental component of his social support system. As Carmy navigates the complexities of his emotional landscape, Richie's presence, while occasionally a source of conflict, seems predominantly to provide Carmy with a sense of stability and connection, instrumental in promoting his psychological well-being.
This understanding of their relationship can guide therapeutic interventions for Carmy, focusing on strengthening these bonds while helping him process the underlying grief associated with his brother's death, ensuring he can continue to navigate his life with resilience and emotional strength.
