Othello Syndrome Research Paper

Othello syndrome might be the nightmare for a medical student who dreads taking any English class as it is a neurological disorder which combines mental health and a Shakespearian character. In the tragedy written by William Shakespeare, the title character Othello murders his wife after falsely believing that she was unfaithful to him. Though it is obvious that a case does not have to turn murderous for Othello syndrome to be present, signs of morbid and irrational jealousy are usually the indicator of this neurological disorder. In 1951, a psychiatrist named John Todd discovered Othello syndrome and called it “a dangerous form of psychosis.” Though dangerous, Othello syndrome only affects a small number of the population and occurs more often in men than women. The disease can be caused by both genetic history and lifestyle habits. Those who have family members with psychological disorders, including Othello syndrome, may be at risk. Also, those with a history of substance and/or relationship abuse are more likely to develop Othello syndrome. Othello
Some of these symptoms include outrageous questions to his/her significant other such as his/her location, passwords, present company, etc. Accusations are often made as someone with pathological jealousy may say his/her partner looks at other men/women, is overly flirtatious, and/or is having an affair. This is because a person with Othello syndrome is convinced beyond reason that his/her partner is unfaithful. Often, symptoms do not fully appear until the affected individual has established a doubt in his/her relationship which often stems from self-esteem issues. The mind of a person affected by Othello syndrome works opposite of the American justice system; rather than finding his/her partner innocent until proven guilty, someone with Othello syndrome requires evidence to prove his/her significant other’s