Exploring the Dark Character of Joe Goldberg in 'You'

The character of Joe Goldberg, played by Messec Cole, in Netflix's hit series You , is a complex and intriguing mix of psychological disorders. Joe's behavior and actions in the show are a clear representation of a psychopath, with hints of the Erotomania syndrome, making him a fascinating character to dissect and analyze.

Psychopath and Erotomania

Joe Goldberg is a mixture of a psychopath and a sociopath. He showcases clear signs of An antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), Grandiose narcissism, and an Attachment disorder. His behavior is entirely self-centered, and he is clinically obsessed. There are moments where Joe is not fully aware of the harm he causes, rationalizing his actions as being for a greater good. Joe is well aware that his actions are wrong, yet he still proceeds, making his character all the more complex and intriguing.

Obsessive Behavior and Brutal Actions

Beyond his narcissistic and antisocial traits, Joe's obsession with Beck is deeply rooted in a condition known as erotomania. This condition is characterized by someone believing that another person, usually a stranger, is in love with them, and they would do anything for them. Joe Goldberg is convinced that Beck is the one and for him, "true love" means everything. This obsession culminates in stalking, kidnapping, breaking and entering, and, unfortunately, even murder. Joe's actions are driven by the delusion that he is saving Beck from her perceived bad influences.

The Journey of Joe Goldberg

Throughout the first season, Joe is relentless in his pursuit of Beck, who is initially dismissive of his affections. Despite saving her life, Beck chooses to remain distant, leading Joe to believe he is under the influence of bad people. Joe becomes disillusioned and starts to see people like Benji and Peach as rivals. He believes that by removing these perceived threats, he can be with Beck, whom he sees as the only true love in his life. This belief leads him to kill these individuals, justifying their deaths as a means of securing his 'truth.'

Disillusionment and Self-Preservation

Joe's obsession with Beck deepens, and when he realizes that she is moving on, he becomes even more desperate. His relationship with Karen Minty, the one person who genuinely cared for him, is also doomed by Joe's delusions. Joe's actions turn more brutal and tragic as he sees Beck as his only hope for love. When Beck ultimately discovers the truth and tries to leave, Joe sees her as a threat and eliminates her. Joe, in his warped worldview, sees himself as a savior, and he justifies his actions by blaming those around him, including the people he has killed.

Conclusion

The character of Joe Goldberg in You is a dark and complex figure. He embodies traits of a psychopath, specifically a grandiose narcissist, and his actions are driven by the delusion of erotomania. His self-serving and justifying behaviors make him a compelling subject for psychological analysis. Whether he is a psychopath or a sociopath is a debate among many, but it is clear that Joe's character and actions are deeply entangled in the web of his own delusions and obsessions, challenging the viewer to question the line between right and wrong.