This scene further demonstrates John’s growing introspection. Though he’s not yet willing to give up the harmful coping mechanisms (drinking and smoking) he’s developed to cope with his inner struggles, he’s at least willing to acknowledge that such coping mechanisms are unhealthy and the result of more serious underlying issues, such as his troubled home life and emotionally unavailable parents. And in the Pigman, John seems to have found an adult who can give him the support and comfort his parents cannot, optimistically suggesting that John, with Mr. Pignati’s help, might be able to work through some of the unaddressed issues that have plagued him throughout his adolescence.