What is a "cobra" in the context of characterological violence and Gottman Method Therapy?

In the context of characterological violence as conceptualized in Gottman Method Therapy, the term "cobra" refers to a person who exhibits violent behavior not only towards their intimate partner but also towards other external relationships. This classification of violence indicates a broader pattern of aggression that transcends the immediate relationship and affects other social interactions.

Understanding this can help therapists recognize the significance of the individual's violent behavior as part of a comprehensive pattern rather than a situational issue confined to the intimate relationship alone. Consequently, effective interventions may require addressing deeper behavioral patterns and underlying issues that contribute to violence in various contexts, enabling more impactful therapeutic outcomes.

The other options suggest more specific scenarios that limit the scope of violent behavior to specific contexts (like just the intimate partner or being linked to infidelity or substance abuse), which does not capture the full spectrum of the "cobra" profile.