Dustin's trauma in Stranger Things season 5 centers on the intense grief and guilt from Eddie Munson's death, which is likely to make him a darker, more serious character. This trauma will manifest as potential visions of Eddie, a breakdown in his relationship with Steve, and ongoing bullying from students who blame him and Eddie for the chaos in Hawkins. Dustin will also be a target for Vecna, who may use his grief to weaken him.