Participating in a intimate relationship can bring out the best in us. They can also trigger extremes in our emotions felt ranging from overwhelming feelings of elation to anger which makes a person act in irrational ways. When others observe a individual feeling content beyond belief most are so happy for them, however if it is anger or sadistic feelings expressed, there could be criminal consequences.
By Dr. Lawana Rene’ Lofton, PsyD
According to Los Angeles Associated Press reporting, Johanna Woolfolk, age 50, of Lynwood, California, On December 20, 2011, was charged by FBI federal prosecutors for providing false and misleading information to AirTran Airways.
On Nov 27th, 2011, Johanna Woolfolk, allegedly told airline representatives her husband was carrying a bomb and boarding a flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for Atlanta.
The FBI reported Johanna Woolfolk believes her spouse of 30-years is having an affair and she was attempting to stop him from meeting his mistress in Atlanta.
Defense Attorney Gordon Turner released a statement his client, Johnna Woolfolk, has admitted in court and to FBI agents that she made the telephone threat, acknowledges fault, and that she “now realizes it was wrong.” Additionally, FBI Special Agent David Gates wrote Woolfolk stated she ....“was not thinking, she did not want to hurt anyone and did not want to cause harm.”
"There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness." Friedrich Nietzsche
It is important to acknowledge we the public only know part of the story as released in the media. It would appear the behavior and actions, as outlined thus far, depict an unsatisfied spouse who intentionally resorted to overtly sadistic behavior towards her spouse as a way to control his movements. Regrettably her actions will have lasting legal consequences and further wedge greater separation in their relationship with one another. In previous reporting, Nonproductive Ways of Dealing with Conflict, examples are outlined how individuals cope with conflict in the most unproductive ways.
1. Avoid the conflict.
2. Deny the conflict; wait until it goes away, or worsens beyond manageability.
3. Change the subject.
4. React emotionally: Become aggressive, abusive, hysterical, or sadistic.
5. Find someone to blame.
6. Make excuses.
7. Let someone else deal with it.
All of these responses to conflict have one thing in common. They are all not productive to maintaining a mature intimate quality relationship. Unproductive forms of conflict resolution can have destructive results, even lead to physical abuse; therefore, learning skills to turn it all around is crucial. Participating in Psychological Therapy can expose individuals to new skills to improve relationship dynamics, productive communication skills, and to discuss strategies helpful to facilitating mature relationship dynamics.
Other details released regarding the pending litigation include reporting the couple is caring for the wife’s mother who is in poor health, and on-going marital discord. Official updates on the case are expected Jan 9th, 2012, when the next court appearance is scheduled. At this time, we may learn of the legal consequences and hopefully the punishment will also include a recommendation of counseling for Johanna Woolfolk to address current daily life dynamics the couple is managing.
Seeking therapy early to address Care Giver Fatigue, Marital Discord, and potentially complicated Grief and Loss issues down the road, would only contribute to long term Mental Health stability.
Until Next time: à Donf
Links:
iPsychology Relationships 28 Relationship Strategies
Psychological Précipice Read more about Psychological Normalcy
Comments