Delusional jealousy: current concepts and a case report

Abstract

Objective. To examine possible factors indicating the development of delusional jealousy as a case study and available literary studies.

Materials and methods. The degree of expression of psychopathological symptoms was assessed using the PANSS scale (Kay et al., 1987). The degree of expression of anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger-Khanin Anxiety Scale (STAI). The degree of distortion of thinking was assessed using pathopsychological diagnostics by using the methods of «elimination of the superfluous», «classification of objects», «pictogram method», «explanation of proverbs and metaphors», «comparison of concepts», and «Leontiev’s method».

Results. Changes in the understanding of the formation, prevalence, and emotional component of delusional jealousy are discussed in a brief literature review. The literature review also includes examination and discussion of a clinical case of a 42-year-old patient with underlying alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder (barbiturate), anxiety disorder, and delusional jealousy.

Conclusion. The presented case demonstrates the difficulty of delusional jealousy diagnosing at the initial stage of the disease. Pronounced symptoms of anxiety might be predictors of the transformation of the psychological construct of jealousy into delusional jealousy. Taking into account a high risk of aggressive behavior in delusional jealousy, patients with high anxiety and jealousy require additional thinking diagnostics and close observation.