: This early episode begins to hint at Norman's dissociative issues. His "blackouts" and attachment to mementos like the tool belt foreshadow his eventual descent into the persona of his mother.
: The episode establishes that White Pine Bay is far from a quiet coastal town; it is built on a "bypass" economy fueled by illegal activities that the local police often overlook or protect. Behind the Scenes Bates_motel_1x02
: To protect herself and her son, Norma begins dating Deputy Zack Shelby, using the relationship as a cover to stay informed about the police investigation. : This early episode begins to hint at