One common type is making her out to be a damsel in distress in a negative way. Instead of seeing her as a character who needs help sometimes, it's exaggerated so she seems overly helpless and annoying. For instance, she's constantly getting into trouble and relying on others in a very unappealing way.
There's also the type where her character traits are distorted. Her kindness might be turned into naivete that always gets her and others into trouble. Her loyalty could be reframed as blind loyalty that causes more harm than good. This way of bashing her changes the core of her character to make her less likable in the fan - created stories.
One common theme could be criticizing Elena's actions regarding her relationships. For example, some fanfictions might bash her for being indecisive between Stefan and Damon. Another theme could be her role in the supernatural events in Mystic Falls. Maybe she's seen as too self - centered in some stories, always putting her own needs and desires above others when it comes to dealing with vampires, werewolves and witches. Also, her character development might be a target, with fanfictions suggesting she didn't grow or change in a positive way as the series progressed.
One reason for Elena bashing in fanfiction could be that some fans prefer other characters over her. For example, they might be big fans of Bonnie or Caroline and feel that Elena gets too much attention in the show. So in fanfiction, they might downplay or 'bash' Elena to give more focus to their favorite characters.
Well, 'Beyond Elena' is also a good one. The OC in this story is strong - willed and challenges Elena's place in Stefan's life. The plot unfolds in a way that makes you root for the OC. It delves deep into the Vampire Diaries lore and uses it to build a new narrative around Stefan and the OC, while also bashing Elena's character in a way that fits the story's overall tone.
You might have luck looking on popular fanfiction websites like Archive of Our Own (AO3) or Wattpad. They often have a wide range of Vampire Diaries fanfics, including the type you're looking for.
I think it gives fans a chance to explore different storylines. Instead of the typical Stefan - Elena relationship, they can see Stefan with an original character. And bashing Elena might be appealing to some who didn't like her character all that much in the show.
The Originals might also play a role in 'vampire diaries elena bashing fanfiction'. Elijah, for instance, who has his own code of honor, might be written as disapproving of Elena's actions and behavior. Rebekah, with her jealousy towards Elena in the show, could be further explored in fanfictions that bash Elena. Kol could be shown as having no patience for Elena's antics. These characters from the Originals can add more complexity and different perspectives to the fanfictions that are critical of Elena.
One common theme is the power dynamic. Kol is an ancient and powerful vampire, while Elena is a human - turned - vampire with her own strength. Another theme is the exploration of the unknown. Since Kol has a different personality compared to the other vampires Elena has interacted with, it's like she's stepping into uncharted territory with him. Also, redemption can be a theme, as Kol might seek redemption through his relationship with Elena, or Elena might see the potential for good in Kol.
One common theme is friendship. Since they were friends before any romantic feelings came into play, many fanfictions explore how that strong friendship foundation can either support or complicate a romantic relationship between them.
One common theme could be her struggle with PTSD. After the abuse, Elena might constantly relive the trauma, which could be shown through nightmares or flashbacks. Another theme could be her isolation. She may push away her friends, like Stefan and Damon, because she doesn't want them to see her as weak or damaged. Also, there could be a theme of revenge. Elena might seek to get back at her abuser in some way, either through direct confrontation or more devious means.
One common theme is protection. Alaric often acts as a protector figure for Elena in fanfiction, much like he did in the show. Another theme is mentorship, as Alaric can be seen guiding Elena through the complex world of the supernatural.