The episode opens as Leonard (Johnny Galecki) looks around at his group of friends in the comic book store and realizes that he is the only one who doesn't currently have a woman in his life. Even the desperate Howard (Simon Helberg) has a girlfriend which not only frustrates Leonard but also makes him a bit sad. Meanwhile Sheldon (Jim Parsons) is enjoying his cyber relationship with Amy Farrah Fowler (Mayim Bialik) because they both agree that they are not in an official relationship. This situation quickly changes as Amy asks Sheldon if he would be willing to meet her mother.

Unsure of the relationship ramifications of such a meeting Sheldon rushes down the stairs to ask his roommate Leonard what this all means. Enjoying the potential change in Sheldon's perfect relationship, Leonard is happy to suggest that Amy is looking for more. This sends Sheldon into a panic as he tries to avoid all contact with Amy, even going as far as dressing up in a disguise to exit his apartment building.

Leonard finally reaches his breaking point and requests the help of his friend Howard to ask his girlfriend Bernadette (Melissa Rauch) to set him up on a blind date. After Howard and Bernadette work out the details the three arrive at a nice restaurant waiting for Leonard's date to arrive. What walks through the door seems to surprise everyone as Leonard's date arrives straight from the gym in her workout clothes. Within minutes it is clear that the two of them don't share any of the same interests and his date is a bit obnoxious. When Leonard and Howard are alone during the restroom break Leonard tells Howard that he is not interested in his blind date. His tune changes a bit when Leonard's date returns and asks Leonard if he would like to attend a wedding the following week with the potential that he will get some action. Leonard quickly changes his mind and agrees that a second date would be just fine under those conditions.

When Sheldon finally confronts Amy Farrah Fowler she tells Sheldon that the only reason she wants him to meet her mother is because it is a ruse. Relieved, Sheldon returns to his happy place and agrees to participate in the ruse. Amy and Sheldon set up a video chat with Amy's mom which is quite funny as they talk about how they are going to have intercourse after they are done chatting.

The Desperation Emanation is episode number five in season number four of The Big Bang Theory. Due to a recent horse riding accident Penny (Kaley Cuoco) was unable to perform in this episode. This is definitely an episode worth seeing as there are many great situational comedy moments.