Norman Bates is a fictional character created by author Robert Bloch in his 1959 novel, *Psycho*. He is best known as the disturbed owner of the Bates Motel, where he lives with his domineering mother, Norma Bates. The character gained widespread recognition through Alfred Hitchcock's 1960 film adaptation, which showcased Bates' complex psychological issues and his dual personality. In the story, Norman Bates struggles with severe mental health problems, leading him to commit violent acts. His character has become iconic in horror fiction, representing themes of identity, trauma, and the impact of a troubled upbringing. The Bates Motel has since become a symbol of fear in popular culture.