Lafayette, Indiana

Why We Watch: Television Character Analysis

Chalk it up to an idle activity, but I have always enjoyed the past time of applying clinical experience and knowledge to television characters. I realize that this contributes very little to society, but is offered as a distraction to the rest of you who - like me - often feels helpless in the face of global suffering and catastrophe. So between my helpless, feckless rantings I bring you some entertaining - but hopefully enlightening insight into some of the television characters that have stayed with us throughout the decades. And among the classics is the venerable Minneapolis anchorman, Ted Baxter. Played to perfection by the late Ted Knight, Baxter was a send up of grandiose television personalities - of pomposity without justification. Ted the narcissist was an exaggerated reflection of many people that we have all encountered.

What in the World Happened to Teddy?

We can never really know the specifics of Ted Baxter’s childhood environment, but it seems clear that something was amiss in the home. Was there some form of neglect or abandonment? Surely some early events had to combine with his genetic makeup to cultivate his narcissism and emotional neediness as an adult man. Might there have been a head injury to young Ted? Or is it more likely that some complicated parenting issues are involved here?

Regardless of the specifics, there must be some logical explanation for Ted’s constant need for approval, his immature, even infantile demands on those around him, and his inappropriate fantasies of personal grandiosity. The fact that he has survived and even thrived as a local celebrity is testimony to his pluck and determination. He has found himself surrounded by people who, although they clearly recognize his limitations and self-defeating behaviors, nonetheless endure and even actively support him.

 

And herein lies a secret to Ted Baxter’s survival. Ted has learned to cope by creating a family-like environment at WJM where his co-workers are playing out the role of parents and siblings. Lou Grant and Mary Richards have become like a mother and father to Te, watching over him, disciplining him when necessary, and often excusing his intolerable, childish behavior. Murray and the other staff function like frustrated siblings to Ted.

One can only hope that, over time, Ted will take advantage of this healthy family structure and continue to grow and mature.

And after all, supportive structure with discipline is the recommended long term treatment for those with narcissistic personality.