Criminal Minds: Why Garcia Has Tons Of Toys In Her Office
After keeping up with the show for 15 seasons, fans of the popular police procedural crime drama "Criminal Minds" undoubtedly have their favorite character. Some of the all-time favorite "Criminal Minds" team members are the smart and sweet Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler), the tough-on-the-outside yet sensitive deep down Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore), the confident boss lady Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster), and of course the eccentric key team member Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness).
Garcia is known for her computer skills, her flirty relationship with Morgan, and her quirky personal style. One of the most iconic aspects of Garcia's look is her desk at the Behavioral Analysis Unit. While you may assume an FBI agent would have a serious-looking workspace, Garcia's is far from normal, complete with a lava lamp, colorful toys and pens, and knick-knacks galore.
But what was the real reason Garcia kept so many toys and pieces of flare on her desk? The answer is a lot more sad than you may think.
Garcia uses toys as a distraction
Agent Aaron "Hotch" Hotchner (Thomas Gibson) is the one who explains why Garcia keeps her workspace so lively. In Season 2 Episode 23, Hotch faces a review from the BAU Section Chief Erin Strauss (Jayne Atkinson), in which he defends his team passionately. He speaks positively of Morgan, Reid, Prentiss, and Jennifer "JJ" Jareau (AJ Cook), revealing the truths behind some of their quirks and insecurities.
When Hotch finally gets to Garcia, he explains the psychology behind her toy-filled desk, saying "Garcia fills her office with figurines and color to remind herself to smile as the horror fills her screens." This revelation is a harsh reminder that the team at the BAU sees horrible things every day, and that has a real impact on their mental health.
As noted by Screen Rant, Garcia is arguably the most sensitive character on the show, so it would make sense that she'd be especially susceptible to the depressing aspect of the job. Not only that, but her fun desk is also symbolic of Garcia's bubbly personality that helps keep the rest of the team in good spirits.