A REVIEW OF PSYCHOLOGICAL THEMES IN “MASUMLAR APARTMANI” SERIES

This article presents a broad scientific review of the Turkish TV series "Masumlar Apartmanı" (The Innocents), which aired on TRT1 in 2020-2022. The series, adapted from Gülseren Budayıcıoğlu's book "Inside the Medallion", explores deep-rooted psychological trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and generational transmission. Using a psychological and narrative analysis approach, this article examines how the series portrays mental disorders, their accuracy in representation, the public impact of such a series on mental health awareness. Safiye's depiction of OCD challenges misconceptions, highlighting its debilitating impact beyond mere cleanliness. Anxiety and trauma-related disorders manifest themselves in many characters, including Gülben's learned helplessness, Neriman's self-harm, and Han's compulsive behaviors. The series highlights the intergenerational transmission of trauma, showing how unresolved emotional wounds perpetuate psychological struggles. This series immerses viewers in the psychological depth of its characters through flashbacks, cinematography, symbolic storytelling, instilling empathy and understanding. The series has played a significant role in changing public attitudes towards mental health in Türkiye, fostering debate, and raising awareness. While it has had a positive impact on viewers by normalizing mental health struggles and inspiring some to seek help, it also raises questions about the media’s responsibility in portraying such sensitive topics. This article provides an in-depth analysis of “Masumlar Apartmanı” to highlight its social impact and underscore the importance of accurate and empathetic representations of mental health in popular culture.