The Glass Castle reflects on author Jeannette Walls’ childhood experience, living in poverty in the United States and how this formed her adult life. While Jeannette pursued her own education and eventually became a well-known journalist, it is important to realize that this is often not the case. The film preserves the myth of meritocracy, alluding that if one is to just work hard enough, they will be able to, like Jeannette, gain wealth and increase their social status (Alvarado, 2010).

As an educator who plans to work with adults at a university level, it is important for me to realize that my students may come from diverse backgrounds. These social identity structures may extend from biological to cultural identity structures and can shift through life from experiences or social forces (Gopaldas, 2013). I must realize that many of these social constructs intersect and should not make assumptions based on any of these (Appiah, 2005). I also need to appreciate how my social location in relation to my students can affect how they learn (Appiah, 2005). Jeannette’s father Rex, and to a lesser extent, her mother Rose Mary, have their own ideas of what is important in education and do not buy into the dominant group’s ideals. Though this may not be widely accepted, it is imperative that I recognize these values and meet my students where they are.

The film deals with not only social class, gender and educational disparities, but also mental health and addiction. Rex Walsh is portrayed as an alcoholic and gambling addict. It is implied that Rose Mary may suffer from a mental health issue, possibly bipolar disorder. Inclusivity, for not only those suffering from mental illness or addiction, as well as those traumatized by the effects of parents or family members with these disorders, is a vital issue for educators. Having resources or information available on programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, or BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program, is a good place to start. Understanding the needs of students of this category and recognizing any need for help will be a priority as an educator.

References

Alvarado, L. A. (2010). Dispelling the meritocracy myth: Lessons for higher education and student affairs educators. The Vermont Connection, 31, 10-20

Appiah, K. (2006). The politics of identity. Daedalus, 135(4), 15-22.

Gopaldas, A. (2013). Intersectionality 101. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 32(1), 90-94. DOI:10.1509/jppm.12.044

Links

Al-Anon Family Groups. (n.d.). BC-Yukon Area 81. Retrieved from http://bcyukon-al-anon.org/index.html

Alcoholics Anonymous. (2019). BC/Yukon Area 79. Retrieved from https://www.bcyukonaa.org/

British Columbia Responsible & Problem Gambling Program. (2014). When gambling isn’t fun anymore. Retrieved from https://www.bcresponsiblegambling.ca/