A PRISONER WITHIN is a dark coming-of-age tale that address child abuse, but also, mental illness/disorders. Though the story focuses on Tiffany’s depression, anxiety, and OCD, it is clear her mother suffers from mental issues, as well. As you read, it is evident the mother can be classified as having untreated and undiagnosed narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and elements of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. The purpose of this tale is to show the horrors these conditions inflict on both the individual, but also those around them. Hiding being the stigma we’ve put on mental health only causes more damage.