Well, the character Norman Bates is a major element from the true story. His gradual descent into madness, which was inspired by real - life psychological profiles, is a big part of Bates Motel. The motel's seedy and isolated nature, similar to what one might expect from a real - life motel with a dark past, is another key element. And the relationship between Norman and his mother, which was a central aspect of the original story, is explored in great detail in the show. It shows how her presence, whether real or in Norman's mind, affects his actions and the overall atmosphere of the motel.