College of Languages discusses a master’s thesis on the impact of Alzheimer’s in contemporary American novels
On Monday, August 19, 2025, the Department of English at the College of Languages, University of Baghdad, held a discussion for the master’s thesis titled “A Study of Alzheimer’s Disease in Selected Contemporary American Novels” by graduate student Noora Diaa Hussein.
The study aimed to explore the impact of cognitive decline on the self and social identity of Alzheimer’s patients through John Turner’s Self-Categorization Theory. It also shed light on the ethical relationships between patients and caregivers using Virginia Held’s ethics of care theory. The thesis highlighted the significance of Alzheimer’s disease in illness narratives and examined how this literary genre influences identity, family dynamics, and social relationships.
The committee recommended raising awareness beyond the medical aspect by emphasizing ethical considerations and emotional support in dealing with Alzheimer’s patients. The committee further advised the researcher to take the notes provided during the discussion.