The Characterization of Joe Goldberg: Psychopath, Sociopath, or Narcissist?

When considering the character of Joe Goldberg from The Girl in thered Coat (also known as YOU), it becomes clear that his personality is complex and not easily categorized. Literary and entertainment experts often debate whether Joe is a psychopath, a sociopath, or a narcissist. In my exploration, I will dissect these possibilities and consider the nuances that make Joe such a compelling and controversial character.

Background and Context

Caroline Kepnes, the author of the books on which the show The Girl in the Red Coat is based, described Joe Goldberg as a narcissist with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) during an interview. This characterization of Joe as a self-obsessed individual with BPD highlights his intense emotional fluctuations and instability, which are key aspects of his character. However, it is important to understand the distinctions between narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and narcissism traits.

Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by an excessive interest in or obsession with oneself. It is distinct from Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is a more complex psychological disorder. The term “narcissist” is often misused to describe people with NPD, who experience a persistent pattern of exploitative and arrogant behavior. Given that Caroline Kepnes described Joe as a narcissist, it is reasonable to assume that Joe exhibits traits of NPD. NPD involves a deep-seated need for admiration and a lack of empathy.

Empathy and Sympathy in Joe Goldberg

Despite being labeled as a narcissist, Joe Goldberg is not a psychopath. This conclusion is drawn from his demonstration of empathy and sympathy throughout the series. Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others. Joe's capacity for showing intense emotions, genuine care, and even moments of empathy indicate that he is more complex than a typical psychopath. His behavior may initially appear psychopathic, but his ability to experience and express emotions suggests otherwise.

Sociopathic Tendencies

Although Joe is not a psychopath, he does exhibit sociopathic tendencies. Sociopathy is associated with antisocial behavior and a disregard for social norms and laws. Joe's actions often border on illegal and morally questionable, which places him on a high functioning scale of sociopathic behavior. However, these actions are driven by his desire for validation and control, rather than a lack of remorse or empathy. This complexity makes Joe an intriguing character who challenges traditional categorizations of antisocial personality disorder.

Impossible Character: Duality and Depth

The reality is that Joe Goldberg is an impossible character. His personality traits do not exist in real life, but they are crafted to fascinate and intrigue the audience. Joe's duality - his ability to be a total jerk one moment and seemingly kind the next - resonates with viewers who often yearn for hope and redemption in characters. This narrative technique allows for a more relatable and emotionally engaging character, even though it complicates the diagnosis of his exact psychological condition.

The Implications of the Creator's Intent

Caroline Kepnes' intention in describing Joe as a narcissist with BPD aligns with the scriptwriters' goal - to create a character that intrigues and captivates. The duality of Joe's character makes him a compelling figure that challenges the audience's perceptions and draws them deeper into the story. However, it is important to recognize that such narratives can idealize the potential for redemption and downplay the severity and reality of psychopathic traits, which can have real-life implications, especially for those dealing with such individuals.

In conclusion, Joe Goldberg is a multifaceted character that defies easy categorization. He is a self-obsessed individual with BPD, who shows empathy and sympathy, and exhibits sociopathic tendencies. His character represents a complex dialectic between narcissism, empathy, and antisocial behavior. By understanding these nuances, we can appreciate the depth and complexity of Joe Goldberg and his role in the narrative of The Girl in the Red Coat.