DR.JOHN'S CASE NOTES : THE CRONOS COMPLEX

The stereo-typical male bridge player, irrespective of his level of ability, tends to harbour the notion that he is by far the stronger half of a partnership, or the strongest link in the team. Vanity, conceitedness, and self delusion are just the incidental characteristics,  possessed by those who fall victim to this particular complex .
However, the most crucial and important component of this tragic condition is that whenever the victim perceives any threat to his perceived status as the " stronger " player, he immediately sets about the task of devouring his doubting partners and teammates. His desire to eat them alive becomes overwhelming. The risk of being disposed as " king " requires a brutal response, and the verbal assassination of any pretender to his crown.
Unable to cope with the thought of being the weaker link or playing second fiddle, the Cronos sufferer might eventually be forced to take even more drastic action, such as taking on new partners and team mates, who no doubt will be in awe of his status. Careful selection will ensure these recruits are close to his standard, but never exceeding.
Sadly, the Cronos Complex is one that cannot be treated without the victim experiencing the urge to commit suicide, if asked to face the unpalatable truth. The reality that others are, or could become, better players than him is one he doggedly sets out to reject.