Stockholm Syndrome

The normal feelings of being abducted or abused are fear and hate, but in the case of Stockholm syndrome, the opposite occurs, and the victim begins to develop a connection and even sympathetic feelings with the captor or abuser.

Stockholm syndrome

Stockholm syndrome is a condition that occurs when the victim or the hostage develops a connection with the abductor or abuser and even starts to sympathize with them.

This condition got its name from the bank robbery incident that happened in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1973, in which many employees who were captivated started to develop sympathetic feelings toward the robbers, and they also refused to testify against them in court.

The term ‘Stockholm syndrome’ used to describe the kidnapper-hostage situation, but currently it includes other types of trauma that contain situations of bonding between the abuser and the victim.

Causes of Stockholm syndrome

There isn’t a clear reason for Stockholm syndrome. However, there are some theories that might explain this situation:

• One theory is that this behavior could be an adjustment from the victims to secure their safety.
• Another theory is that when the abductor shows some acts of kindness, then the hostages might feel grateful.
• Sometimes, the victim sympathizes with the abductor because they internalize what made them do that and excuse them.

Symptoms of Stockholm syndrome

People with Stockholm syndrome have:

• Sympathy and support for the reasons and behaviors of the abusers or captors, and the victim might try to help the captor as well.
• Positive feelings toward the abusers or captors.
• Negative feelings toward the authority figures or anybody who tries to rescue them.
• Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Diagnosis of Stockholm syndrome

• There isn’t specific criteria to diagnose Stockholm syndrome. However, it can be diagnosed depending on the victim’s behaviors.

Treatment of Stockholm syndrome

• Psychological therapy.
• Group therapy.
• Certain medicines to alleviate nervousness and stress.