Joe Goldberg has become one of Netflix’s most captivating and controversial characters. The psychological thriller “You” follows his journey from a seemingly charming bookstore manager to a manipulative and dangerous killer. As the final season streams, audiences are eager to understand what drives Joe Goldberg to commit such chilling acts.
The Psychological Profile: What Makes Joe Tick?
Joe Goldberg’s actions have sparked debate among both fans and mental health professionals. According to psychologist Dannielle Haig, Joe displays a complex mix of personality traits. He shows strong markers for Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), alongside obsessive romantic ideation and abandonment fears.
Joe consistently demonstrates a lack of empathy, manipulativeness, deceitfulness, and criminal behaviour without genuine remorse. These traits align with classic ASPD criteria. He rationalizes his violent acts as being “for love” or “for the greater good,” which is a hallmark of narcissistic* entitlement.
Erotomania: The Root of Obsession
In earlier seasons, experts identified erotomania as a key factor in Joe Goldberg’s behaviour. Erotomania is a rare psychiatric disorder marked by the delusional belief that someone is in love with the affected person. This disorder is often associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions1.
Joe’s obsessive pursuit of his romantic interests, often leading to stalking and violence, reflects the dangers of unchecked obsession. The show’s portrayal of erotomania is based on real-life cases, highlighting the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help for delusional beliefs.
Trauma, Childhood, and Attachment
Joe Goldberg’s troubled childhood is central to his psychological makeup. He experienced trauma, neglect, and abuse, which shaped his distorted view of love and relationships. Experts suggest Joe’s attachment style is anxious-ambivalent. He fears abandonment and clings tightly to romantic partners, fueling his obsessive and possessive behaviour.
His need for control and inability to form healthy attachments stem from unresolved psychological conflicts and traumatic experiences. Joe often projects his own flaws onto others and rationalizes his actions, further complicating his mental state.
The Debate: Psychopath*, Sociopath*, or Something Else?
Fans and professionals have debated whether Joe Goldberg is a psychopath* or sociopath*. The distinction is blurry, as “psychopathy” is not a widely accepted clinical diagnosis. Most experts agree that Joe exhibits symptoms of Antisocial Personality Disorder, which includes a disregard for right and wrong and a lack of empathy for others.
However, Joe does not fit neatly into one category. He sometimes shows glimpses of empathy, such as his devastation after certain deaths or reluctance to harm specific individuals. This complexity suggests that his behavior is not solely antisocial but also rooted in trauma and attachment issues.
Joe Goldberg’s Evolution Across Seasons
Joe Goldberg’s character has evolved significantly across the series. In season one, he is portrayed as a charming yet deeply disturbed individual obsessed with Guinevere Beck. His infatuation leads to manipulation, violence, and murder.
Subsequent seasons see Joe adopting new identities and relationships, from Los Angeles with Love Quinn to London with Kate Lockwood. Each new environment exposes different facets of his personality, but his core patterns of obsession, control, and violence remain.
The final season brings Joe Goldberg back to New York, where he tries to build a new life with Kate. However, his past soon threatens to unravel everything, forcing him to confront the consequences of his actions.
The Cultural Impact and Final Chapter
“You” has become a global sensation, with Joe Goldberg at its dark heart. The character’s blend of charm and menace has sparked widespread discussion about mental health, obsession, and the nature of evil. As the series concludes, viewers are left to ponder whether Joe Goldberg can ever truly change or if his fate is sealed by his own psychological demons.
The story of Joe Goldberg serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked obsession and untreated mental health issues. The show’s nuanced portrayal encourages audiences to look beyond the surface and consider the complex interplay of trauma, personality disorders, and societal influences that shape individuals like Joe Goldberg.