Patrick Bateman is a fictional character from the novel "American Psycho" written by Bret Easton Ellis and later portrayed in a film adaptation of the same name. The story follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy, successful investment banker in Manhattan, who leads a double life as a sadistic serial killer.
The novel and film leave the cause of Patrick Bateman's descent into madness somewhat ambiguous, allowing for various interpretations. There are a few possible factors that might have contributed to his insanity:
Dehumanizing Environment: Patrick Bateman is part of a wealthy, materialistic, and shallow social circle, where people are often treated as commodities. This dehumanizing environment could have contributed to his detachment from empathy and moral values.
Psychological Issues: It's implied in the novel and film that Bateman has deep-seated psychological issues. He exhibits signs of narcissism, an obsession with appearances, and a lack of emotional connection with others. These traits might have been exacerbated by underlying mental health problems.
Repressed Emotions: Bateman seems to repress his emotions, leading to an internalized rage and frustration that manifests itself in violent and sadistic tendencies.
Dissociation: Bateman's identity crisis and his constant comparison of himself with others may suggest a form of dissociation, where he loses touch with reality and his own sense of self.
Social Commentary: Some interpretations view Patrick Bateman as a symbol of the soullessness and decadence of 1980s yuppie culture. In this context, his descent into madness could be seen as a critique of a society that prioritizes wealth, status, and material possessions over genuine human connection.
It's essential to remember that Patrick Bateman is a fictional character, and the complexity of his character allows for multiple interpretations. The story is meant to explore themes of consumerism, identity, and the dark side of humanity.