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The Harmful Effects Of Expectations In The Scarlet Ibis By James Hurst

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The harmful effects of expectations from family, friends, society, and ourselves can lead to constant pressure and negative consequences, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. This is represented in “The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst. During the conversation between the two brothers, Doodle says, “‘I can't walk, Brother.’ ‘Who says so?’ ‘Mama, the doctor–everybody’" (Hurst). The expectations of Doodle's family and society that he should be normal and physically capable led to his brother's insistence on teaching him how to walk, even if it meant pushing Doodle beyond what he could handle. Doodle's inability to walk is not something he believes in himself; rather, it is a limitation imposed on him. In this case, the pressure set to meet societal

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