Yendere

Yandere is a Japanese term used to describe a character, typically in anime, manga, video games, and other forms of Japanese media, who is initially depicted as loving, gentle, and devoted to a particular person (or, more rarely, an ideal). Over time, however, their love and affection become obsessive and possessive, often to a violent or psychopathic degree.

The term is a combination of two Japanese words: yanderu (病んでる), meaning "to be sick," or "mentally ill," and deredere (デレデレ), which describes a character who is genuinely loving and affectionate.

A yandere character's actions are often motivated by the desire to protect their love interest from any perceived threats, real or imagined. These threats can include romantic rivals, friends, family members, or even the love interest's own well-being if the yandere believes that they are better off isolated and dependent.

The level of violence and instability displayed by yandere characters can vary greatly, ranging from obsessive stalking and manipulation to kidnapping, psychological abuse, and even murder. The archetype often serves as a commentary on the darker side of love, highlighting the dangers of unchecked obsession and possessiveness. Yandere characters are frequently presented as tragic figures whose actions, while extreme, stem from a deep-seated fear of abandonment and a desperate need for validation. They are a popular trope in Japanese media, often used for comedic effect, suspense, or to explore complex themes related to love, obsession, and mental illness.