An LGBT character goes through a notable amount of hardship compared to their other straight counterparts. When LGBT characters are burdened with storylines that are created to make them suffer, especially when associated or parallel to the character exploring their sexuality, it reinforces the idea that non-heterosexual identity equals misery. Historically, LGBT+ characters have not been allowed happy endings. Once mandated by the broadcasting standards Hayes Code, “deviant” characters (including all LGBT+ characters) must not be made sympathetic or rewarded, and narrative punishment for this behavior remains pervasive even now that mainstream attitudes and laws have changed.
For lesbian or bisexual women this trope includes, but is not limited to, isolation through their inability to maintain healthy relationships with other characters, particularly in same-sex relationships where least one half of the couple is slated to die at the end and the partner is the one left behind dealing with grief and guilt.
