Stranger Things and its portrayal of bullied children

There has been some criticism of Stranger Things regarding its portrayal of bullied children, though it’s not a dominant theme in mainstream reviews. Most critics see the bullying as a narrative device to highlight resilience, but some argue the show risks reinforcing stereotypes by repeatedly showing vulnerable kids as easy prey for supernatural evil.

Key Criticisms About Bullying in Stranger Things

Victimhood as Weakness: Some viewers note that characters like Will and Eleven are consistently bullied and then targeted by supernatural forces. This can be read as suggesting that “weakness” attracts danger.

Reinforcing Tropes: The repeated pattern—bullied kids being possessed, attacked, or isolated—has led to concerns that the show unintentionally stigmatizes vulnerability.

Alternative Readings

Empowerment Arc: Many critics argue the show ultimately empowers bullied kids. Eleven, despite being humiliated at school, becomes the most powerful hero. Will, though sensitive and targeted, is central to understanding the Upside Down.

Metaphor for Outsiders: The bullying is often interpreted as a metaphor for how outsiders—nerds, misfits, or socially marginalized kids—face greater challenges but also develop deeper bonds and resilience.

Friendship as Strength: The series consistently shows that solidarity and friendship are what defeat evil, not brute strength or popularity.

While Stranger Things has been praised for giving bullied kids heroic arcs, some critics and fans worry that the narrative unintentionally suggests weakness invites danger, which could be read as stigmatizing vulnerability. The broader consensus, however, is that the show celebrates outsiders and turns bullied kids into heroes rather than mocking them.

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