Why Penny Standing Up To Sheldon Has Actually Made Their Relationship Better

It's no secret that The Big Bang Theory 's Sheldon Cooper can be a lot to handle. Throughout the series, viewers have wondered how the people around him can even live with his personality of never-ending quirks and sarcastic comments.

All of Raj, Howard, and even his roommate and best friend Leonard had their moments of real frustration with him, which often led to conflict. Penny, an outsider to the group of friends, did exactly what many viewers felt was necessary: she stood up for herself.

In season 2, episode 7, The Panty Pinata Polarization, the beginning of Penny and Sheldon's true friendship is officially established with her iconic line, "Well, your Ken can kiss my Barbie. ” For anyone else, receiving that insult might have been the last straw before they broke off contact.

For Sheldon, however, it was exactly what he needed to hear.

Penny set some pretty strong boundaries, which made communicating with her much easier for Sheldon. What we may read as him pushing someone's boundaries beyond the point of no return may actually be him trying to figure out what is appropriate in talking to them and taking note of their reaction.

So Penny's quick defense not only gave viewers one of the most perfect comeback lines ever, it also drew a line that Sheldon should never try to cross again. Unless, of course, he wants to get into a full-blown conflict.

Because Penny was so open about telling Sheldon when he was crossing the line and how the things he was saying were inappropriate, he came to trust and rely on her understanding of social cues. Of course, it took time for both characters to come to terms with their differences, but it all led to one of the show's most beautiful relationships.

If you want to re-watch The Big Bang Theory and see everything that led to Penny and Sheldon becoming the great friends they were, you can stream the show on Netflix or MAX.