Troy's Nihilistic Views In Reality Bites

In Reality Bites, Troy- an idolized, philosophical hipster, ends up being the final love interest of Lelaina- an ambitious, self-important, victim of a love triangle trope. Through analyzing the Schools of Thought within Psychology, it will be explained as to why their relationship is not only unhealthy, but will not last. Firstly, Troy holds the belief that life is pointless. How can someone believe in love- a huge aspect of life- if nothing truly matters? It’s a complete contradiction. Lelaina would be surrounded by a constantly pessimistic environment with Troy’s Nihilistic views. Secondly, he is impulsive and has no ambition- not a solid foundation for trusting, secure, relationship. Thirdly he cast his negativity upon others, most significantly
Watson, is the theory that once the motivation behind a behaviour is understood and identified, the behaviour can be predicted in the future. A behaviour that Troy depicts quite frequently is how is is emotionally abusive towards Lelaina. Throughout Reality Bites, he states that he is Lelaina’s best friend and is supposedly in love with her. Yet, on multiple occasions he publicly ridicules her, attempts to control, flatter, and isolate her and overall treats her poorly. This behaviour reflects on his own emotional immaturity. He doesn’t know how to express himself, so he mocks her. He can’t handle sleeping with someone he cares about so he runs away. When he doesn’t know how to apologize properly and prove himself worthy of her, so he resorts to tempting her own personal fears. He says she needs him and that he is the only real thing in her life, so therefore he should be excused for his wrongdoings. Knowing that this emotional immaturity drives his abuse towards Lelaina, one can predict that although the movie ends seemingly happy, his abuse will continue. Contrary to popular belief, falling in love does not absolve someone of all their poor traits. Especially when it comes to an unemployed, self-important, fellow with daddy