Stockholm Syndrome is a psychological disorder that develops in individuals who have been taken captive, held hostage, or abused by their captor.

It is a condition that affects an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior towards their captors.

What is Stockholm Syndrome?

Stockholm Syndrome is named after a 1973 bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden, where four bank employees were held hostage for six days.

During this time, the hostages formed an emotional bond with their captors, and even defended them after they were rescued. Researchers began studying this psychological phenomenon and found that it wasn’t limited to this particular case, but was something that could develop when subjected to similar circumstances.

How Does Stockholm Syndrome Develop?

Stockholm Syndrome develops as a result of intense psychological trauma, where the brain attempts to cope with the situation by creating positive feelings towards the captors.

The sufferer experiences a mix of emotions including fear, terror, and anxiety along with feelings of compassion, affection, and even love for their captors. This coping mechanism is a survival instinct and, in some cases, ensures the individual’s safety, making them more compliant with their captor’s demands.

Characteristics of Stockholm Syndrome

People who suffer from Stockholm Syndrome tend to exhibit the following characteristics:.

An emotional attachment to their captor
Defending their captors to others
Refusal to testify against their captors
Feelings of gratitude towards their captor
Belief in their captors’ goodness
Positive feelings towards their captors

Why Does Stockholm Syndrome Occur?

Stockholm Syndrome occurs due to a reaction to a threatening or traumatic situation, which in some cases can lead to the development of a survival strategy.

The individual may fear for their life, or for their physical or psychological wellbeing, leading to the development of feelings of attachment to their captor. In some cases, the individual may believe that showing gratitude or affection towards their captor may reduce the severity of the abuse they suffer, or even improve their chances of survival.

How Can Stockholm Syndrome be Treated?

Stockholm Syndrome is a complex psychological disorder that can take a long time to resolve. Treatment often involves psychotherapy, where the individual can work through the memories and feelings associated with their traumatic experience.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma-focused therapy are commonly used to help individuals address their traumatic experiences and overcome this disorder.

Conclusion

Stockholm Syndrome is a rare and complex psychological disorder that develops as a coping mechanism in response to traumatic circumstances.

Individuals who suffer from this disorder may form an emotional attachment to their captors, exhibit feelings of gratitude and affection towards them, and defend them to others. Treatment for Stockholm Syndrome involves psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy to help individuals work through the traumatic experiences that led to the development of this disorder.