Relationship Disappointment Stress Syndrome as a Cultural and Post-Trauma Phenomenon in Sub-Saharan Africa: Case Report

Abstract

This report presents the case of a not yet well-researched condition referred to as relationship disappointment stress syndrome (RDSS). This syndrome appears to be linked to cultural norms that romanticize marriage and unresolved post-traumatic sequelae, both of which may contribute to overly optimistic relationship expectations. When these expectations are unmet, individuals may experience the profound effects of disappointment. This case study highlights the experience of three selected patients out of 10 cases who underwent psychotherapy at the Baho Smile Institute in Rwanda. We observed three patients over a 3-month period; we conducted 12 sessions using compassion-focused therapy that emphasizes restoring humaneness. The results showed the patients to have the following main symptoms: somatic, interpersonal, and purpose-related issues, such as headache, backache, neck pain, pseudo-paralysis, losing trust and interest in others, diminished sexual desire, loss of humanism, excessive preoccupation with relationships, and feelings of failing in life's purpose. Further empirical studies are needed to confirm the findings of this case report.