The Relationship Between Teenage Characters and Society in Khmer Literature: A Study of “The Rich Kid”

Abstract

This article aimed to investigate the relationship between teenage characters and various forms of society as depicted in the Khmer young adult novel, entitled “The Rich Kid.” The researcher mainly uses the study of literary texts. As for the component analysis step, the literary analysis method of Kulap Malli Kamas was used. The study found three types of relationships: positive, neutral, and negative. These three types of relationships emerged from three social contexts: family, school, and Khmer society. The study found that the most prevalent type of relationship was negative, followed by positive and neutral relationships. These relationship patterns reflect the ways in which youth are cared for and raised in society and can also serve as a guide for future youth care and upbringing.