Another way is through neglect. The Dursleys might not provide proper nutrition or medical care for Harry when he gets injured. Over time, this could lead to health problems that cripple him. For instance, if he has a broken leg and they don't take him to a doctor, it could heal wrongly and cause long - term disability. Also, the lack of a healthy diet could weaken his body and make him more susceptible to diseases that could have a crippling effect.
The Dursleys could also cripple Harry emotionally in fanfiction. Their constant belittling, isolating him from others, and treating him like a burden could break his spirit. This emotional crippling might make it difficult for Harry to trust people, form relationships, or even fully embrace his wizarding identity. He may become withdrawn and lack the confidence needed to face the challenges in the wizarding world.
In this fanfiction, perhaps the Dursleys' constant abuse and neglect cause Harry to have some sort of mental or physical disability. It might show how he has to overcome not only the challenges of the wizarding world but also the trauma inflicted by his Muggle relatives. For instance, he could have problems with his legs from being locked in a cupboard for long periods, which would be a physical crippling, and then have to deal with the self - doubt and fear that comes with it.
His relationships could be affected. Hermione and Ron might have to take on more of a caretaker role, which could change the dynamic of their friendship. Also, he may face discrimination or pity from other students at Hogwarts, which could further isolate him. And in terms of romantic relationships, his self - esteem due to his crippled state might make him less likely to pursue someone like Ginny.
In the original series, while Harry has a tough time with the Dursleys, he's not 'crippled' in such an extreme way. In the fanfiction, it's likely to take this maltreatment to a whole new level. For example, in the books, Harry is still able to function relatively well when he gets to Hogwarts, but in this fanfiction, he might be really damaged.
In such a fanfic, it could lead to a completely different storyline where Harry has to overcome even greater challenges due to his physical disability.
One way the Dursleys can be good in fanfiction is if they are forced to face the consequences of their actions early on. For instance, they might receive a warning from the wizarding world that if they don't treat Harry well, there will be serious repercussions. So they start to be nicer to him. They could provide him with a proper room, better food, and allow him to have friends over.
In some Harry Potter fanfictions, the Dursleys are depicted as nice. This could be a really interesting take. It might show how they could have been different if they hadn't been so influenced by their dislike for magic. Maybe they could have supported Harry more, or at least been less cruel. For example, a fanfiction could explore a scenario where Vernon Dursleys actually encourages Harry's academic achievements at school, instead of always putting him down.
A lot of fanfictions play around with the Dursleys' relationship with Harry. They could be depicted as having a sort of begrudging respect for Harry. For instance, when Harry starts to show real courage and power, the Dursleys might start to see him in a new light. This is different from the original story where they mostly just try to suppress Harry. Also, some fanfictions might give the Dursleys magical abilities of their own, which completely changes their dynamic with Harry and the wizarding world.
Often, a good Dursley in fanfiction is the result of a different backstory. Maybe Petunia has a moment of reflection about her sister Lily and decides to treat Harry better. Vernon could also come around when he sees the power and influence that Harry might have one day and wants to be on his good side. So, in these fanfictions, they become more likeable and positive characters.
It might show the constant power struggle between them. Harry, as a wizard, has an inner strength that the Dursleys try to suppress with their mundane and cruel ways. So it's a battle of wills.
Well, in fanfiction, the idea of 'ridge ribs' and the Dursleys' abuse of Harry Potter could be a completely out - of - the - box concept. Maybe 'ridge ribs' are part of a spell or a magical object that the Dursleys get their hands on. And they use it to make Harry's life even more miserable. It could be that the 'ridge ribs' have some sort of power to cause pain or discomfort, and the Dursleys, being the horrible people they are in the story, take advantage of it to abuse Harry. But this is all just speculation based on the very unique combination of words in the fanfiction world.