Between Love and Obsession: Japanese Society’s Perspective on the Concept of Yandere Characters

Abstract

The term “yandere” in Japanese popular culture refers to a fictional character who harbors an intense and obsessive love for someone, to the extent that they are willing to commit extreme acts, including violence or even murder. The objective of this study is to examine Japanese perceptions of yandere characters, explore the factors contributing to their popularity in Japan, and analyze potential reactions if individuals were to encounter a yandere personality in real life. This study employs a qualitative research method, utilizing a survey administered to fifteen Japanese individuals who have an interest in anime and manga. The analysis is conducted using Gerbner’s Cultivation Theory (1976) to interpret Japanese perspectives on yandere characters based on the collected survey data. The findings indicate that while most Japanese respondents express a dislike for yandere characters and prefer to distance themselves from them, a minority perceives such characters as appealing, viewing them as a representation of an intense and devoted form of love that has gained cultural traction in Japan. Furthermore, 80% of respondents believe that yandere behavior is plausible in real life, particularly within the context of romantic relationships.