By Tim Stevens
Karla Sofen is an adult female of seemingly above average physical condition. Over the years, Sofen has possessed several super powered aliases, including
Moonstone and Meteorite; she currently serves as part of HAMMER Director
Norman Osborn's team of
Avengers as
Ms. Marvel. In her various alter egos, Sofen has previously been a part of the
Masters of Evil, the Corporation and the
Thunderbolts.
Prior to her life as a super villain and ostensible super hero, the client was either a practicing psychologist, psychiatrist or, possibly, both. Records on this matter are incomplete and the client is often inconsistent in her own descriptions of her work. In any case, it seems highly unlikely that the client is currently licensed in either field given her numerous ethical violations including convincing the original owner of the Moonstone—which gives the client her power—to give it to her while he was under
her care and inciting individuals to suicide to satisfy her voyeuristic interests on the subject. However, her training in the area of psychology remains worthy of note because she makes extensive use of it to gain access, trust, and power in her interactions.
Throughout her mandatory Avengers evaluative session, Sofen repeatedly attempted to connect with the writer and "win him over." Her intent in doing so was unclear. It seemed that it was something almost as natural as breathing. The client did it not because she had to, but rather because it was her dominant form of interpersonal interaction. This writer's hypothesis is that she considered the idea of being evaluated by a psychologist insulting and set out to prove her superiority in the field by gaining the upper hand.
Because of behaviors like this, while she seems to work well in the confines of a team, the writer would warn that the client should not be considered a strong team player. She has proven to be useful despite her personality and motives, not because of them. It is very apparent that Sofen views teams as a chance to try out her manipulation skills and gain more power.
She has an investment in the team's success only in so far as it helps her realize her own personal goals. The failure of the team matters very little to the client unless it interferes with her plans.
Given this data, a diagnosis of Antisocial Personality Disorder initially seemed obvious. However, in reviewing her file, the writer concluded that some of the client's actions could be interpreted as evidence of a conscience. These are most present in her relationships with
Clint Barton—once Hawkeye, now
Ronin—and Hallie Takahama—Jolt. Because of this, without further sessions to diagnosis the client, this writer cannot make a definitive diagnosis of this disorder.
Therefore, it is recommended that Sofen also be evaluated for Narcissistic Personality Disorder, which would manifest itself in many similar ways and allows for the possibility of feeling guilt or remorse.
Overall, however, this writer warns that the client may be amongst the few for whom therapy should not be attempted. Given her talents and interests in manipulation, her
ego, and possible lack of conscience, she is unlikely to commit to any treatment plan and therefore unlikely to show any improvements.
A full report, as prepared by Doctors Brian Reed and Sana Takeda, will be available on July 8 and found filed under MS MARVEL #41.
Tim Stevens is a Mental Health Supervisor currently pursuing his Psy D who has experience working with individuals with personality disorders.
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