Talk:Goumasa Tokage/@comment-91.19.94.33-20150718185812/@comment-10733658-20150720091209

Well, it isn't hero syndrome (which is creating dangerous situations so one can be the hero). But certainly, some of Kaneki's misfortune came from his own doing. He admits as much, realizing his mistake in recklessly seeking power rather than listen to those around him. It's even explicitly discussed in Hinami's story in the third novel, with Koma discussing the burdens of leadership and his worry that Kaneki doesn't have anyone to challenge him when he makes bad decisions.

Kaneki also admits that he was repeating his mother's mistakes, by taking on so many burdens for himself. He didn't know how to let others help him, and gave into his fear of loss.