'Friends': Why Ross Geller and Rachel Green's 'perfect' relationship is a prime example of toxicity
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Die-hard fans of the popular sitcom 'Friends' will recognize the famous phrase, 'We were on the break!' that has become part of popular culture in recent years, thanks to the popular duo of Ross Geller (David Schwimmer) and Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston).
On the surface level, Ross and Rachel's relationship appears to be oh-so-lovely, as, despite many difficulties in their relationship, they eventually end up together, but is this actually the case?
As we have seen, under the surface of this supposedly adorable romance is a sequence of behaviors that highlights a toxic relationship.
Over the course of ten seasons, it became clear that, although they were a couple, they also exemplified toxicity. But how? Let's discuss.
Ross Geller's jealousy and control issues highlight a lack of respect for Rachel Green
We've all seen Ross sometimes overstep his limits and seem envious of Rachel's male acquaintances, which is a toxic trait.
At first sight, it may pass as a comedic gig, but the problem is deeper and more concerning. For example, when Ross attempts to exert control over their living conditions and Rachel's intention to go to Paris with their baby.
His efforts to influence her choices show a lack of respect for her independence and capacity to make her own judgments.
Furthermore, the iconic argument about whether they were 'on a break' is a pivotal event that highlights the boundary concerns in their relationship.
Ross sleeps with another woman right after a dispute with Rachel, without first clarifying their relationship status or considering Rachel's sentiments. This conduct clearly demonstrates a disdain for personal boundaries.
Ross Geller and Rachel Green's immaturity keeps their relationship from being stable
Both Ross and Rachel often demonstrate immature behavior via rash judgments and emotional responses.
Ross and Rachel's relationship is characterized by its on-and-off nature, which reflects their immaturity as each breakup is dramatic and is usually caused by misunderstandings or a lack of good communication.
But rather than having meaningful conversations and making an effort to comprehend one another's viewpoints, their separation is often infused by intense drama.
Their frequent patterns of splitting up and reconciling without dealing with the underlying problems highlight their incapacity to keep a committed, adult relationship going.
Ross Geller and Rachel Green's 'end game' narrative promotes toxic behaviour
The relationship between Ross and Rachel is often portrayed in the show as 'meant to be', or 'end game' despite their obvious mismatch.
This narrative tends to romanticize their toxic behaviors, such as jealousy, manipulation, and poor communication, by portraying them as minor roadblocks to their true love.
This fails to emphasize how crucial it is for a relationship to succeed to have open communication, respect for limits, and personal development.
The pivotal airport scene in the season finale, in which Rachel turns down a dream job in Paris for Ross, serves as a reminder that the couple makes impulsive decisions.
Also, this moment, celebrated as the turning point of their love story, successfully erases the bad memories from their past and presents their union as the ideal romance.
Overall, Ross and Rachel's relationship serves as an example of what not to do in mature, healthy relationships, as these behaviors serve as a roadblock to personal growth.
How to stream 'Friends'?
To watch the show on Netflix, you must have an exclusive membership, since the streaming service provides a number of packages depending on your budget.
The Standard Plan with advertising requires a monthly membership of $6.99 and includes full HD (1080p) streaming.
The Standard Plan, which does not contain advertisements, costs $15.49 per month and enables you to use one account on two screens at once while streaming in 1080p/full HD resolution.
The $22.99/month Premium Plan allows customers to watch video to up to four screens at the same time in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Atmos and HDR.
'Friends' trailer