I believe creators have a moral responsibility to consider the psychological toll that hyper-realistic depictions of abuse and misogyny can have on their audience. When a character is written to be intentionally hateful and violent in a way that mirrors real-world trauma, it isn't just 'good writing'—it can be a direct trigger for people who have survived similar situations. For many of us, media is an escape, but when we encounter characters who reflect our abusers without sufficient warning or narrative cushioning, it forces us to relive our worst memories. It’s not about censorship; it’s about acknowledging that art exists in a social context. If a character’s sole purpose is to be a vessel for realistic hate, creators should prioritize the mental well-being of their community over shock value or 'gritty' realism. We need more sensitivity in how these themes are handled to ensure that media remains a safe space for everyone, especially those already carrying the weight of past trauma. Seeing a character act out the same violence I experienced at home doesn't feel like entertainment; it feels like a re-traumatization that could have been avoided with more thoughtful characterization.
Art and storytelling should not be sanitized just because some themes are difficult or painful to process. The purpose of a villain or a problematic character is often to provoke a strong emotional response and to highlight real-world evils. If we start limiting how realistically a character can express bigotry or violence, we lose the ability to tell powerful, impactful stories that reflect the complexities of the human condition. It is the responsibility of the consumer to manage their own triggers and curate their media consumption based on their personal history. If I know I am sensitive to certain topics, I should seek out content warnings or avoid genres known for those themes, rather than demanding that creators change their vision. Removing the 'teeth' from a character's malice makes the narrative less effective and can even trivialize the very real issues being depicted. We must protect the freedom of creators to depict the world as it is—sometimes ugly and cruel—so that the triumph over those elements feels earned and meaningful. Expecting the world of fiction to be a safe space is unrealistic and ultimately stifles the creative process that allows us to confront these dark aspects of humanity through a safe, fictional lens.