Case Study Analysis 1: The installation of dominance

Conditioned onset and abrupt change

To illustrate the "dominance" phase, we will analyze the dynamics of a fictitious couple based on the real clinical case, whom we will call Napoleon (aggressor) and Josephine (victim).

The relationship begins under a premise of rescue and jealousy: Napoleon urges Josefina to leave a previous unsatisfactory relationship, promising her marriage and children.

However, the moment she agrees and they begin to live together, his behavior undergoes a radical metamorphosis.

From being a passionate suitor, he becomes distant, indifferent and cold, reserving tenderness exclusively for the moments when he desires sex.

When Josephine, confused by this change, tries to ask for explanations, Napoleon flatly denies that anything has changed.

This denial of reality (Gaslighting) forces the victim to artificially strive to appear cheerful in order to "recover" the man she knew, in the process losing her natural spontaneity and sinking into a depression that he, ironically, uses to justify his remoteness.

Denial of reality and intellectual appropriation

Professionally, the two share an occupation, although Josephine has more experience.

Napoleon routinely seeks her advice, but rejects any constructive criticism with phrases such as "I don't know what you're talking about" or "I'm fed up".

He appropriates her brilliant ideas by presenting them as his own, denying her any recognition or gratitude.

If he makes a mistake, he never takes responsibility; he blames third parties, such as his secretary, and Josefina, to avoid conflict, pretends to believe him.

In addition, Napoleon pathologically lies about his schedule and free time to maintain control and generate uncertainty.

He goes so far as to leave false clues, such as train tickets that contradict his stories of business trips, with the sole purpose of mentally destabilizing his partner and keeping her in a state of permanent doubt.

Public humiliation and economic/aesthetic control.

Contempt is evident in social and domestic situations. At public events, Napoleon acts as if he does not know Josephine, refusing to greet her or leaving her alone, then justifying himself with vague excuses about being "very busy."

In private, he exercises strict control over her image and finances. Although Josefina is financially independent, he criticizes her spending and treats her like a child, forcing her to keep her belongings in a certain way.

He openly mocks her personal care products ("potingues"), questioning why she needs to use them.

This constant attack on her