How Far Is Too Far When It Comes To Jealousy

Dubbed the “world’s most jealous woman,” Debbi Wood’s story turned out to be far more tragic than sensational. She was diagnosed with Othello Syndrome, a rare psychiatric condition also known as delusional jealousy, in which someone becomes absolutely convinced their romantic partner is being unfaithful despite having little or no evidence. Even clear proof that they’re not doesn’t change the belief.

For Debbi, that meant making her husband, Steve, take a lie detector test every time he came home. She monitored his phone, emails, and bank accounts, restricted his social media use, and even removed the television from their home so he wouldn’t see actresses.

Rather than walking away, Steve recognized that her behavior was the result of a mental illness, not cruelty. With therapy, treatment, and time, Debbi’s symptoms gradually improved, the lie detector was finally put away, and the couple began rebuilding trust in their marriage.

The condition takes its name from Shakespeare’s tragic play *Othello*, written around 1603. In the story, Othello is manipulated into believing his faithful wife has been unfaithful, and his overwhelming jealousy ultimately leads to tragedy.

Could you stay in the relationship?

Lana Backman