Forrest Gump is a complex and interesting lead character and provides a unique contrast to typical early adulthood behavior. In the film, from the time he attends college, towards the end of the film where he begins his role as a father, Forrest goes through normal events that occur in the lives of many young adults. His reaction and development is different from most however, and he goes through interesting events and experiences. This contrast between typical life events and a slower than normal development shows that some expectations about cognitive abilities may not be as important. Even those who are considered "slow" by the mainstream population can be successful and live a life full of typical life events that fall within a typical
He enters the Army because the recruiter comes up to him after graduation. He becomes famous after running across the country just because he had a whim to start running. He even starts the shrimp boat because that was his plan during the Army when Bubba suggested it. The majority of adults take time and consideration in these decisions, but Forrest tends to fall into these things and then doesn't question them. He is very accepting of whatever comes his way and doesn't like to question his current situation or wonder about the future. When the Army recruiter comes up to Forrest and his mother after graduation he asks, "Have you given any thought to your future?," while handing him a brochure. As the man walks away Forrest responds, "Thought?" This shows his lack of consideration to future plans. During their time in college, Forrest goes to visit Jenny and when she tells him about her dream of becoming "somebody," he doesn't understand and can't grasp what she's talking about. He lacks in this area and in many ways Forrest is behind as far as developmental levels. Physically, however, he is right on target. Early adulthood is a time where people are at their strongest, tallest, and healthiest levels. Forrest fits into this perfectly. He plays football in college, runs across the country, carries his entire Army group out of danger, and generally stays free of health problems. This advancement in physical development helps him to function in