The disorder primarily associated with jealousy, specifically delusional jealousy, is a subtype of delusional disorder.
Delusional Jealousy: A Deeper Look
According to the DSM-IV and ICD-10, delusional jealousy involves persistent, unfounded beliefs of infidelity from one's partner. It's considered a specific form of morbid jealousy. This is where an individual is convinced their partner is being unfaithful, often without any concrete evidence.
Key Characteristics
- Lack of Evidence: The jealousy is based on unfounded suspicions rather than any real proof of infidelity.
- Delusional Belief: The individual's conviction about their partner's infidelity is unshakeable, despite contradictory evidence.
- Absence of Other Psychopathology: Typically, this type of jealousy occurs in the absence of other significant mental health conditions.
- Morbid Jealousy: The severity and persistence of the jealousy are intense and distressing to both the individual and their partner.
Example
A person with delusional jealousy might intensely monitor their partner's activities, scrutinize their phone records, or accuse them of infidelity based on minor, normal interactions, all without any real basis.
Reference Information
The provided reference states: "Delusional jealousy is a subtype of delusional disorder as described by DSM–IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) and ICD–10 (World Health Organization, 1992). In these cases, delusions of infidelity exist without any other psychopathology and may be considered to be morbid jealousy in its 'purest' form." This confirms that delusional jealousy is a form of a delusional disorder characterized by intense, unfounded beliefs of infidelity.
