Stefan is a 171-year-old vampire who appears to be a 17-year-old boy. He possesses super strength, super speed, and the power of compulsion. He is extremely protective of his loved ones and is known for being compassionate, kind, loyal, and empathetic. However, he also has a darker side; he can be brooding, self-destructive, and self-righteous. To control his darker impulses, he strictly drinks animal blood, as human blood turns him into a malevolent version of himself.