Being jealous is normal in relationships; the problem arises when they become uncontrollable, constant and scratchy in the sick. In these cases, jealousy is no longer a concern to become a real problem that, in most cases, leads to so-called Othello syndrome.
This syndrome, also known as monosymptomatic delirium, refers to the play “Othello, the Moor of Venice?”From William Shakespeare, in which Othello, the main protagonist, weeds a network of suspicions about the supposed infidelity of Desdemona, his beloved. , to kill her and then kill herself.
- Thus.
- People who delve into these obsessive spirals of suspicion and mistrust on the part of their partners.
- For no other reason than their imagination.
- Often suffer from this syndrome.
- Then we will see in more depth what their characteristics.
- Their possible causes and their treatment are.
- Are.
According to DSM-V, Othello syndrome is a delirant disorder, that is, the fundamental axis of this disorder is pathological or extremist jealousy that holds the idea that the couple is unfaithful.
The behavior of the person with this syndrome is totally irrational, the data subject sees what he wants to see, whether or not there is evidence and details that confirm his beliefs, so his only concern in the relationship will be to look for evidence in a meticulous and obsessive way in which your life partner deceives you, using methods such as controlling your cell phone , your computer and constantly submitting you to questions about your routine. Your illusion will even make you believe that your partner has changed their habits since becoming unfaithful.
Othello syndrome is a condition that can have dramatic consequences due to the uncontrollable and irrational jealousy that makes the sufferer miserable, in some cases you will think you are the victim of a conspiracy, feeling betrayed by your partner.
In addition, jealousy can also be influenced by others, as well as by Yaco’s Othello in Shakespeare’s play, or even by the media. Anything that can confirm your beliefs will be important.
Some aspects that can help identify if a person has this syndrome are:
Currently there is no study that has shown 100% why this syndrome occurs, although there are many factors that can influence its development. Some of them would be alcoholism, schizophrenia or other addictions.
Other studies have linked Othello syndrome to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease, while some explain the relationship between the syndrome and brain damage, meaning there may be a physiological reason in the brain when it appears.
The point is that it is not only a matter of behavior, but there is also an emotional component that we cannot forget associated with self-esteem, however, much remains to be done to determine the causes of this syndrome.
The treatment of pathological jealousy is possible with the help of a professional, thanks to him the person will learn to control it, will be able to regain his personal serenity and, finally, the harmony of his relationship. To do this, it will be important to carefully evaluate the affected person to establish the source of pathological jealousy, what is the current level of discomfort and what are the consequences, as well as any other additional problems.
The most commonly used and effective approach to the treatment of Othello syndrome is cognitive behavioral therapy, on the one hand, the behavioral techniques used are exposure prevention and response and, on the other hand, cognitive restructuring as a technique; However, for extreme cases, antipsychotic drugs are also recommended for pulse control.
Family and partner therapy is also important, as jealousy is sometimes associated with the life history of the person affected by Othello syndrome.
As you can see, Othello syndrome is a disorder that cannot go unnoticed because its consequences can be quite serious, so if there is a slight suspicion, it is advisable to consult a specialist.