Big Bang, Big Abuse

Why is Amy still with Sheldon? Why? Why hasn't she kicked his can to the curb and said, 'Good riddance!'?

Her relationship with Sheldon is just him throwing one insult after another at her. I just don't get it. Honestly, at this point, the only descriptor of this relationship that applies is emotionally abusive.  That is the only reason I can think of for why Amy is still with him.

Yet, the writers of the show want us to laugh at Sheldon's utter lack of understanding social cues. They want us to get a kick out of his bluntness which doesn't just border on offensive but has blasted across that line in a tank.

It's bad enough that Sheldon is pretty horrible to his friends, but his lack of emotional development towards Amy is just awful. I, for one, feel guilty about getting a laugh out of his utter lack of respect and decency towards his girlfriend. (And yes, I did just admit that I do find it funny while finding it unacceptable.)

We wouldn't think it was funny if Sheldon were constantly hurting Amy, so why do we find it funny when he hurts her psyche with demeaning phrases such as "moth-like personality" and "my little ball of wool"?

If you can think of a defence for Sheldon, let me know in the comment section below.