Yandere

A yandere is a fictional character archetype commonly found in Japanese media, particularly anime and manga. They appear initially sweet, loving, and caring towards someone they are attracted to. However, this affection can quickly turn obsessive and possessive, often fueling extreme behaviors like jealousy, manipulation, or even violence to eliminate perceived threats to their relationship. The term combines "yanderu" (mentally ill) and "deredere" (lovey-dovey), reflecting their complex, often unstable emotional state. Yandere characters explore themes of intense love intertwined with obsession, highlighting psychological complexity and sometimes dangerous fixation.