What Is Symptomatic Jealousy?

Jealousy comes in different forms, one of which is symptomatic jealousy. According to "The Psychology of Jealousy and Envy," psychological researchers generally differentiate the forms of jealousy based, in part, on the work of Mullen and White (1989), who differentiated between three types of jealousy.

The Facts

• The three general forms of jealousy commonly accepted under this theory are "symptomatic jealousy," "pathological or pathologically reactive jealousy" and "normal jealousy."

Definition

• Symptomatic jealousy is defined as jealousy resulting from severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and substance abuse. This kind jealousy may be completely based in delusions.

Significance

• According to the Marriage and Family Encyclopedia, a free Internet resource provided by JRank, jealousy is an emotion that stems from fear. People express jealousy in different ways that can vary based on situation, biological, cultural and personal factors.

Considerations

• According to "The Psychology of Jealousy and Envy," symptomatic jealousy may stem from real insecurities that the mentally ill partner in the relationship will be abandoned due to his or her partner's inability to accept the diagnosis.

Expert Insight

• Symptomatic jealousy often lessens as treatment progresses.