Amazing Race 4, Armchair Psychology: Episode 4

Steve & Josh – What struck me the most was the way that Steve let Josh make some decisions even though it was against his better judgment. Amidst all the other teams who are having power struggles, I admire the respect they have for each other. Even though there were some harsh words and tension, neither stepped on the other’s toes to get where they were.

Monica & Sheree – The girls are adapting well to having to work hard and not being able to rely on anyone to do it for them. They’re even praying when it comes to difficult tasks, showing that they are not completely in charge of their fate. So far, I think they work well together and they have not blown any fuses or lost tempers, so I would deduce that they work well under stress.

Reichen & Chip – Moving to the back of the line when they “didn’t have to” appears to be an attempt to redeem themselves. What they saw was a team in negative attention (Tian and Jaree) and took that moment to show they have “integrity.” I think the hype and competition of the race is greatly affecting them and making them act erratically, especially when they stubbornly stayed on the wrong path.

Tian & Jaree – Had all the other teams not caused a stink with them cutting in line, I’m quite sure they would have stayed where they were. But they quietly let everyone pass them up and acted as if that were their plan all along. I’m still waiting to see their better qualities.

Millie & Chuck – It is becoming clearer to me who wears the pants in this family. Each event that depicts Millie being the aggressor helps me decide why it is that this couple has stayed together all this time without making plans for the future. I believe that once Millie decides what she wants in life, Chuck will know, too. Still, this team is a force to be reckoned with, what with Millie’s drive and Chuck’s willingness to be led.

Jon & Al – Eager to make friends, they’ve paired up with Millie and Chuck. There has been little to stress them out and they remain in good spirits. I’m waiting for any proverbial straws that break the camel’s back.

Dave & Jeff – Not much information on these guys. That only goes to say that they have not had much drama or excitement either way. Perhaps they are really good at concentrating on the task at hand.

Jon & Kelly – Kelly is not one to be pushed to the rear. It’s interesting to see a Type-A male and female compete against other teams and each other. Kelly is showing mucho hostility towards other teams by calling them names and being extremely judgmental. One would think she is personally offended by the other teams’ competitiveness. I have to wonder if this is a subconscious attempt to boost herself up over the other teams.

Steve & Dave – I was really surprised to see how bent out of shape this team got when Tian and Jaree were at the beginning of the line unfairly. They went as far as resorting to threats! What this told me was that they would at least consider anything to fight for fairness.

Marci Thompson, aka “Dr. Marci,” is a freelance reporter and psychology student from Texas. You can e-mail her at marci@monarchbay.com.

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