| rdfs:comment | - Alan and Barbara are in a relationship, but Alan knows something's wrong, to the point where he decides it's better to just end things. He could just sit Barbara down and tell her, "You know, this isn't working out. I don't think we should be together anymore." So Alan tries to get Barbara to break up with him first, usually by engaging in unattractive behavior. Almost always backfires; in fact, sometimes it just makes things worse, especially if played for comedy. Success typically results in No, Really, It's Okay if Alan hasn't pissed off Barbara too much. Examples of Please Dump Me include:
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| abstract | - Alan and Barbara are in a relationship, but Alan knows something's wrong, to the point where he decides it's better to just end things. He could just sit Barbara down and tell her, "You know, this isn't working out. I don't think we should be together anymore." So Alan tries to get Barbara to break up with him first, usually by engaging in unattractive behavior. Reasons for this vary. Alan might know the relationship has to end, but he doesn't want to be the bad guy, especially if what's turning him off could be seen as shallow or insignificant by others. He might genuinely want to spare Barbara's feelings, and figures that she won't be heartbroken if she's the one who initiates the breakup. He might realize that he's not the one she belongs with, and does this to make her see that. He might be afraid of what her father or big brother might do to him. Or if they're married, they might have a prenup that makes it desirable for Alan not to be the one to request a divorce. Almost always backfires; in fact, sometimes it just makes things worse, especially if played for comedy. Success typically results in No, Really, It's Okay if Alan hasn't pissed off Barbara too much. In more serious works, discovering this trope in action will result with the wannabe dumpee labeled a Dirty Coward. Unless it turns out that he's Dating Catwoman. Happens in Real Life, and let's leave it at that. Examples of Please Dump Me include:
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