Anti-villain motivations besides “tragic past”

the-right-writing:

• They do bad things because they’re scared.
• They’re gullible or misinformed. Example: somebody who has been told the heroes are out to hurt them.
• They are desperate for interaction, validation, kindness, or attention, and the dark side gives them those things. 
• They want to change their allegiance, but are pressured by people close to them to stay evil.
• They have an otherwise noble goal that they will do literally anything to achieve. Example: somebody who wants to protect their child, even if it means throwing other children into danger.