Love and Conflict: A Semiotic Analysis of Conflict Resolution and Relationship Management in Toxic Relationships in Ai Yazawa’s NANA

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

• Angelico Luis Alonzo Sevilla, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Vance Andre King Co, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Jillian Reese Yip Tan, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Scarlette de Sagon Yape, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Family, Relations, and Social Structure (FRS)

School Name

De La Salle University Senior High School - Manila

Track or Strand

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

[Uy, Ma. Jemimah, R.] [Ferrer, Nathaniel Rey, D.]

Start Date

25-6-2026 10:30 AM

End Date

25-6-2026 12:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Online - https://zoom.us/j/95274188371?pwd=bXhb7DQU3HQbLltdMsVaoT4A5iwGBr.1 Meeting ID: 952 7418 8371 | Passcode: research

Abstract/Executive Summary

Shōjo anime often shapes how viewers perceive romantic relationships, including how relationship conflict and reconciliation are portrayed. Our study examines how relationship conflict and resolution behaviors are represented in Ai Yazawa’s NANA (2006) through its visual and narrative elements. This research aims to analyze how anime’s visual language and character interactions convey relational tensions and strategies in resolving these conflicts. Using a qualitative research design anchored in Visual Semiotics Theory (Aiello & Parry, 2022), the study analyzes how aesthetic choices operate as systems of signs to construct social and emotional realities from 5 selected scenes of each key relationship from the series, specifically between Osaki–Ren, Hachi–Takumi, Hachi–Nobu, and Hachi–Shoji. A scene log was created to document the visual composition, dialogue, nonverbal actions, and sound design of NANA, with conflict behaviors categorized according to established conflict resolution frameworks. The analysis also considered the socio-cultural context of Japan reflected in the portrayal of relationships within the narrative. Findings indicate that conflict is frequently portrayed through emotional misunderstandings, power dynamics, and insecurity. Visual techniques, such as fragmented framing, muted color palettes, and dimly lit interiors, are used as semiotic signs to emphasize emotional vulnerability and psychological entrapment during moments of tension. Conversely, reconciliation is depicted through integrative behaviors like emotional validation and open communication, rooted in vulnerability. Overall, the study highlights how anime storytelling communicates complex relationship dynamics through visual semiotic strategies. By examining these portrayals, the research contributes to discussions on media representation, interpersonal relationships, and the cultural narratives embedded in contemporary anime.

Keywords

anime studies; shōjo anime; visual semiotics; conflict resolution behaviors; cultural representation in anime

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes