Cyberbullying in a Star Wars Context: Why Kylo Ren Reacts to Rey's Disagreement

Kylo Ren's reaction to Rey's disagreements in the Star Wars series is a crucial part of his character arc, and it can be seen as a reflection of cyberbullying and abusive behavior in real-world contexts. This article delves into why Kylo Ren gets offended when Rey disagrees with him, focusing on his manipulative and abusive tactics.

Understanding Kylo Ren's Character

Kylo Ren is a complex character in the Star Wars series who embodies both redemption and evil. He manipulates, abuses, and tries to control Rey through fear and intimidation. His actions and reactions are not just part of a fictional narrative but can mirror real-life abusive behaviors.

Psychological and Physical Abuses

Kylo Ren's entire modus operandi with Rey involves a combination of psychological and physical abuse. He uses both tactics to maintain control and to ensure that Rey conforms to his will. Here’s an analysis of how these abusives behaviors manifest:

Psychological Abuse

Rather than directly using violence, Kylo Ren relies heavily on psychological manipulation to exert his influence over Rey. This includes:

Intimidation: He makes Rey fear the consequences of defying him. This tactic is similar to cyberbullying where targets are made to feel isolated and afraid. Isolation: He isolates Rey from her support network and her own strength, leading her to feel dependent on him. Humiliation: He uses public shaming and humiliation to further instill fear and break down Rey’s confidence.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is another tool in Kylo Ren’s arsenal, albeit more subtle in the Star Wars universe. While it is not as prominently displayed, there are instances where he physically punishes or coerces Rey, reinforcing the message that disobedience will result in harm:

Verbal Threats: He uses verbal threats to threaten violence, which is a form of psychological pressure. Physical Consequences: He publicly punishes Rey when she shows defiance, often in front of others, to set an example of the consequences of going against him.

Rey's Internal Struggle

Rey's disagreement with Kylo Ren is a significant moment in their relationship. It is here where she begins to see through his manipulations and reject his control. This struggle is central to her personal growth and development as a character:

Independence: Rey’s initial agreement with Kylo Ren is due to her need for guidance and reassurance. Disagreements start to expose her to the manipulative and abusive nature of his methods, fostering her independence. Self-Discovery: Each disagreement is a step towards self-discovery. She learns to rely on her own strength and wisdom, rather than seeking validation from Kylo Ren. Empowerment: Through her struggles, Rey gains the strength to challenge and confront the abuser, leading to her eventual freedom and personal triumph.

Real-World Implications

Understanding Kylo Ren’s abusive behavior is crucial in recognizing the signs of cyberbullying and other forms of abuse in the real world:

Prevention: Education is key in preventing such behaviors. By raising awareness of abusive tactics, individuals can better recognize and address harmful relationships. Support: For those in abusive situations, it is essential to have a support system. This can include friends, family, or professional help. Empathy: Recognizing the emotional and psychological impact of such behaviors is crucial in fostering empathy and understanding for those affected.

Conclusion

Kylo Ren’s behavior towards Rey in the Star Wars universe is a powerful allegory for abusive behavior in real life. His reaction to Rey’s disagreements is not just a character flaw but a deeply rooted pattern of manipulation and control. Understanding and learning from these behaviors can help us recognize, prevent, and address abuse in all forms.