The Walking Dead: Why Recent Plots Fail to Validate PTSD or Realism

The latest The Walking Dead season 10 episode 3 is back in the spotlight, featuring a significant shift in character development for the doctor, treating Carol and subsequently having flashbacks to traumatic events. However, rather than aligning with an understanding of PTSD, the storyline feels forced and fails to address the character's trauma meaningfully.

While The Walking Dead has a dedicated fan base that enjoys the show for its unique zombie-fueled world, recent character developments have gained significant criticism for their lack of depth and authenticity. This article will delve into why the recent plot changes fail to resonate with viewers who seek realistic and well-written content.

Fixed Character Trauma and PTSD: A Missed Opportunity

In this episode, the doctor's decision to treat Carol, a character who has experienced significant trauma, and his subsequent flashbacks suggest a potential dive into the realm of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the portrayal of PTSD in the show is woefully inadequate and flat.

PTSD is a complex condition that can manifest in various ways, including flashbacks, heightened sensitivity to triggers, and emotional numbing. The show misses the mark in depicting these symptoms comprehensively and accurately. Instead, the character's trauma is shoehorned into a narrative that feels forced and lacks genuine emotional impact.

Furthermore, the scene's focus on the doctor’s memories is far from terrifying or impactful. It reads more like a clumsy attempt to introduce new plot elements rather than a deeply moving exploration of a character's internal struggles. The misrepresentation of PTSD not only fails to add value to the show but also misleads viewers who are seeking an authentic representation of mental health issues.

Everything for Shock Value, Nothing for Character Development

Consumers of the show regularly praise its morbid storyline, with one fan stating, "The zombies are the second most unrealistic part of the show." This statement highlights a common critique: the show frequently prioritizes shock value over meaningful character arcs or storytelling. Characters who undergo drastic changes and suddenly adopt new, often contradictory perspectives, are prime examples of this issue.

For instance, a character might go from, "I'm not willing to kill!" to "We must kill all of them without hesitation!" and further to, "I'm sick of all this death!" within the span of a few episodes. These rapid and illogical shifts make it difficult for viewers to invest emotionally in the characters, as their motivations and behaviors don't align with their established personalities.

In the same vein, the plotline might conclude with a character saying, "I've learned something valuable about life!" just before facing the end of their life either by being 'eaten' by the dead or 'murdered' by the walking dead. Such abrupt and disjointed character development undermines the show's attempts to weave a coherent and emotionally resonant narrative.

No Good Writing, Just Entertainment Value

The preceding examples illustrate a broader issue: The Walking Dead's recent writing lacks the depth and verisimilitude necessary to engage and move its audience. While the show has a dedicated following, this reputation is often based more on its unique concept of a zombie apocalypse than on sound writing and character development.

It is perhaps naive to demand that a show like The Walking Dead, a mainstay of the zombie genre, incorporate elaborate psychological themes. However, the show can certainly benefit from a greater emphasis on thoughtful character arcs and nuanced storytelling. Instead, the recent shifts in character development read more as plot-driven plots than as organic character growth, resulting in a tenuous connection between the audience and the narrative.

If viewers are not looking for well-written dialogue, well-rounded characters, or a psychologically complex story, then they can enjoy the show as a form of escapist entertainment. For those who often critique the writing, however, the recent developments feel more like convenient plot devices than compelling storytelling.

Conclusion

While The Walking Dead continues to be a significant and popular production in the realm of television, recent storyline changes and character developments have not aligned with a more realistic and human-centric approach. The misrepresentation of conditions like PTSD and the lack of believable character arc development suggest that the show may be prioritizing entertainment over authenticity. To truly resonate with its audience, the show would benefit from a more committed and realistic approach to both writing and character portrayal.