Understanding Stockholm Syndrome

Introduction to Stockholm Syndrome

Stockholm Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where hostages develop empathetic bonds with their captors.

Stockholm syndrome is a psychological condition where hostages develop an emotional or empathetic attachment to their captors, sometimes even defending them against authorities. The term was coined after a dramatic hostage situation at Kreditbanken on Norrmalmstorg, Stockholm, in 1973, where captives exhibited sympathy towards their kidnappers.

Introduction

Stockholm syndrome, which was first identified by criminologist and psychiatrist Nils Bejerot, refers to the unique psychological effects that occur when hostages become emotionally attached to their captors. This phenomenon becomes increasingly relevant in today's society, making the understanding of Stockholm syndrome provide insights within both psychology and the broader conversation on human interactions in extreme situations.

History of Stockholm Syndrome

Origin of the Term

The term "Stockholm syndrome" was coined following the events surrounding the Kreditbanken at Norrmalmstorg in Stockholm in 1973. During a six-day hostage situation, where the bank robber Jan-Erik Olsson and his accomplice held four bank employees captive, the hostages developed strong emotional bonds with their captors. Bejerot initially described this reaction as Norrmalmstorg syndrome, which later gained the international name Stockholm syndrome.

Details of the Bank Robbery Incident

During this intense hostage situation, strong emotional bonds developed between the hostages and their captors, which surprised both authorities and the public. The hostages began to represent the robbers in their absence and clung to a sense of loyalty towards their captors, revealing a complex psychological behavior.

Psychological Effects

Emotional Bonding

In a hostage situation, victims often feel threatened and afraid, which can lead to irrationality and distorted perceptions of their situation. Emotional bonding can be seen as a survival behavior, where hostages develop a form of empathy for their captors. This connection can act as a defensive mechanism precisely to minimize the perceived threats.

Mechanism Behind the Feeling

The phenomenon can be interpreted as an identification with the perpetrator, where the victim's emotional reaction is given room to grow. This relationship is complex and can be explained by different psychological patterns, where even a desire to survive plays a role, causing the hostages to try to nurture the relationship to their captors to prevent violence.

• Historical origin in Stockholm 1973.
• Psychological impact on hostages.
• Insight into human behavior under stress.
• Examples from real-life incidents.
• Controversies and discussions.