Estimated read time: 5 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Tara Sullivan | Protagonist |
| Donna Sullivan | Tara's Mother |
| Kevin Sullivan | Tara's Father |
| Abby Sullivan | Tara's Sister |
| Dr. Stewart | Psychologist |
| Mr. Sullivan | Tara's Grandfather |
| Mrs. Sullivan | Tara's Grandmother |
| Sam | Tara's Best Friend |
| Jamie | Tara's Boyfriend |
Role Identification
In the book "Kissing Doorknobs" by Terry Spencer Hesser, the main character is Tara Sullivan, a teenage girl who struggles with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The other characters in the story include Tara's family members, her friends, and her psychologist.
Character Descriptions
Tara Sullivan is a 15-year-old girl with shoulder-length brown hair and hazel eyes. She is of average height and has a thin build. Tara's mother, Donna Sullivan, is a caring and supportive woman who often worries about Tara's well-being. Kevin Sullivan, Tara's father, is a hardworking man who tries his best to understand Tara's condition. Abby Sullivan, Tara's younger sister, is a typical teenager who sometimes finds it difficult to relate to Tara's struggles.
Dr. Stewart, Tara's psychologist, is a middle-aged man with a calm and understanding demeanor. He plays a crucial role in helping Tara navigate her OCD and provides her with coping mechanisms.
Sam, Tara's best friend, is an outgoing and adventurous girl who stands by Tara through thick and thin. Jamie, Tara's boyfriend, is a kind and patient young man who tries to understand and support Tara in her battles with OCD.
Character Traits
Tara Sullivan is intelligent, sensitive, and determined. Despite her OCD, she possesses a strong will to overcome her struggles. She is resourceful and creative in finding ways to manage her symptoms. Tara's mother, Donna, is nurturing and protective. She constantly looks out for Tara's well-being and seeks the best help for her daughter. Kevin, Tara's father, is patient and understanding, always trying to support Tara in any way he can. Abby, Tara's sister, is sometimes annoyed by Tara's behavior but ultimately cares for her sister's well-being.
Dr. Stewart is compassionate and knowledgeable in his field. He is patient with Tara and helps her develop strategies to cope with her OCD. Sam is loyal, outgoing, and always there for Tara, providing her with a sense of stability and normalcy. Jamie is understanding and patient, supporting Tara through her struggles and reassuring her that he is there for her.
Character Background
Tara Sullivan grew up in a loving and supportive family. Her OCD began manifesting in childhood, but it wasn't until her teenage years that it escalated and became more debilitating. Tara's family tries their best to understand and support her, but they often struggle to comprehend the extent of her obsessions and compulsions.
Dr. Stewart becomes an integral part of Tara's life as he helps her navigate her condition. He works closely with Tara's family to develop a treatment plan that includes therapy sessions and medication.
Character Arcs
Throughout the story, Tara Sullivan experiences a significant character arc. At the beginning of the book, Tara's OCD is severely impacting her daily life, causing her distress and isolation. As the story progresses, Tara learns coping mechanisms from Dr. Stewart and implements them in her life. She gradually gains control over her obsessions and compulsions, allowing her to experience a sense of freedom and normalcy.
Tara's relationships with her family, friends, and boyfriend also evolve throughout the book. Her family becomes more understanding and supportive, learning to navigate her condition better. Tara's bond with Sam strengthens, as Sam provides a stable and understanding presence in her life. Her relationship with Jamie deepens as he learns to support and accept her struggles with OCD.
Relationships
Tara has a close relationship with her family, particularly her mother Donna, who constantly supports and advocates for her. Tara's relationship with her father, Kevin, evolves as he becomes more knowledgeable about OCD and learns how to be there for his daughter. Tara's sister Abby, although sometimes frustrated by Tara's behavior, ultimately cares for her sister's well-being.
Tara's bond with her best friend, Sam, is crucial in her journey. Sam provides a sense of normalcy and understanding that Tara desperately needs. Tara's relationship with Jamie, her boyfriend, is supportive and loving. Jamie accepts Tara for who she is and supports her in her battle against OCD.
Conclusion
In "Kissing Doorknobs" by Terry Spencer Hesser, the characters play vital roles in portraying the challenges faced by Tara Sullivan as she battles with OCD. The character analysis highlights the traits, relationships, and character arcs of Tara and those around her. Through the support of her family, friends, and therapist, Tara embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience, ultimately finding ways to manage her OCD and live a fulfilling life.
