The polygraph has become a popular tool for resolving cheating allegations, helping couples rebuild broken trust. Howev er, a partner must have reasonable grounds before asking their spouse to submit to an infidelity polygraph test.
A common reason for requesting lie detector tests in relationships is if nothing can be proven (yet), but there’s significant circumstantial evidence. Besides, a polygraph exam may be necessary if trust was once broken and the betrayed partner desires full closure.
There are also less common but highly recommended scenarios where taking lie detector tests could save a relationship, such as if one partner suffers from Othello syndrome.
Here’s a look at Othello syndrome in forensic psychology and the role of polygraphs in managing the condition.
What Is Othello Syndrome?
Othello syndrome is a psychological disorder in which a person is convinced (often with ZERO proof) that their spouse or romantic partner is cheating on them. It’s also known as pathological jealousy or morbid jealousy.
Many relationships face infidelity allegations from time to time. But with Othello syndrome, the accusations are usually levelled without substantial proof.
The polygraph has helped with various mental health issues, including substance abuse and sex addiction. That explains the growing belief that the technique might also aid in treating Othello syndrome.
A lie detector test can help a couple clear their name, restoring trust in the relationship.
What’s The Deal Behind the ‘Othello’ Name?
Renowned author and poet William Shakespeare is credited with coining the term “Othello syndrome.” The term derives from one of Shakespeare’s plays titled ‘Othello.’
In this play, an eponymous protagonist murders his wife, Desdemona, on false infidelity allegations.
But while the origin of the “Othello” term is undisputed, opinion is divided on the real motivation behind the tragedy in Shakespeare’s play.
Many observe that Othello’s actions were due to manipulation and misinformation. That’s a stark contrast from Othello syndrome’s clinical manifestations, which border on pure delusion.
What Causes Othello Syndrome?
Studies have shown that Othello syndrome isn’t a standalone disorder but a symptom of an underlying mental and psychiatric problem.
Commonly cited causes include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and stroke.
Like most psychiatric issues, Othello syndrome can worsen in a stressful environment. Relationships riddled with poor communication, incessant suspicion, and family pressures are often breeding grounds.
Othello Symptoms
Othello typically presents as delusional suspicion of a partner’s infidelity. As mentioned, there’s usually no solid proof to go on. Tell-tale signs include;
- Interpretation of neural behaviors (such as cheerfully greeting a stranger) as cheating
- Persistent accusations of infidelity, leading to mistrust
- Verbal or physical abuse (when the accused is finally fed up with the allegations)
- Preoccupation with a partner’s phone (looking for anything that doesn’t belong)
- Stalking or cyberstalking
In severe cases, Othello syndrome may present in emotional sabotage, such as denial of conjugal rights.
Effects of Othello Syndrome
If untreated, Othello syndrome can easily ruin a once-thriving relationship. Note that there’s a limit to which a faithful partner will entertain cheating claims.
Whenever infidelity allegations come up, the accused will want to defend themselves. However, someone with Othello syndrome may misconstrue those defensive acts as further attempts by their spouse to conceal their tracks.
Some studies have also linked Othello syndrome with alcoholism. For people with Othello, alcohol provides a temporary getaway from their ‘cheating spouse.’
Other likely effects of Othello syndrome include;
- Sexual dysfunction
- Exacerbation of underlying mental illnesses
- Increased predisposition to anxiety and depression
- Homicides due to extreme violence
The Role of Polygraphs in Treating Othello Syndrome
Othello syndrome is a psychiatric disorder, whereas polygraphs measure physiological arousal associated with deception. So, where’s the intersection?
Administering polygraphs can help the accused partner to clear their name and restore trust in the relationship.
Note that most people with Othello syndrome are looking for the slightest hint of unfaithfulness. As such, they tend to interpret neural actions as evidence of cheating.
Polygraph findings can reassure the delusional partner that the infidelity is all in their mind.
Usually, an examiner will establish prior contact with the couple to get them prepared for the polygraph test. During these initial interactions, the examiner will familiarize themselves with different scenarios and stimuli that trigger cheating allegations. They’re then able to frame the polygraph questions accordingly.
To effectively resolve cheating suspicions, an examiner will need to compile a list of questions that address all identified scenarios. Possible question could be;
- Did you have physical sexual contact with anyone other than your spouse?
Resolving persistent cheating allegations can help clear doubts and prevent aggression associated with Othello syndrome. For improved outcomes, a multi-pronged approach involving polygraph examiners, forensic psychologists, and relationship counselors is key.
Othello Syndrome Treatment: Maximizing Outcomes With Polygraph Tests
Othello syndrome may be easy to dismiss as normal relationship jealousy. But without timely intervention, this psychological disorder can ruin any thriving marriage.
The feelings of paranoia could trigger relationship-damaging habits like stalking, incessant infidelity accusations, and physical or verbal abuse. Not the ideal picture of the ‘happily ever after.’
There’s no magic pill for Othello syndrome. However, scheduling a polygraph test early in the diagnosis can help manage the condition and potentially save a relationship.
Remember to enlist a professional examiner for all Othello syndrome lie detector tests. Choose someone who graduated from an accredited polygraph school, and preferably one with special training in forensic psychology.
