Stockholm Syndrome: A Toxic Positivity Bond Between The Hostage and Their Captor

Stockholm syndrome is where the hostage develops a positive emotion and bonds with the captor. This often happens in situations related to kidnapping cases. The hostages will begin to feel sympathy toward their captors after days of captivity. Well, they begin to feel the closeness.

The existence of Stockholm syndrome started in 1973 from an incident of a bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden. The kidnappers held four hostages in the bank. The standoff between the criminal and the police continued for six days. After the authorities released the hostages, they discovered that the hostages had an unbreakable emotional bond with their captors.

The kidnapping victims reported that their captors treated them well and had no intention of harming them. They fully defend the kidnappers and do not want to testify against them in court.

Just like how One Direction’s Stockholm Syndrome sounds:

“Who’s that shadow holding me hostage?I’ve been here for daysWho’s this whisper telling me that I’m never gonna get away?I know they’ll be coming to find me soon
But I fear I’m getting used to being held by you”

The probability of Stockholm Syndrome occurrence

Nils Bejerot, a criminologist and psychiatrist, one of the investigators of the incident, named the phenomenon Stockholm syndrome. It is already synonymous with any similar incident. It is a coping mechanism to cover the victim’s excessive fear.

Based on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s expectations, the probability of its occurrence to abduct victims is low at around 8%.

The condition is not considered one of the mental illnesses in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), even though this case is quite popular. Many researchers also agree with that.

How do you get Stockholm Syndrome?

  1. The hostage depends on the captor for their basic needs, especially food and water.
  2. The captor has not dehumanized the hostage.
  3. The captor shows some kindness towards the hostage or refrains from harming them.
  4. The hostage shared space with the captor, with the area in poor condition.

The impact on mental health

  1. Social withdrawal
  2. Denial
  3. Guilt
  4. Confusion
  5. A complicated tension
  6. Anxiety
  7. Hopelessness
  8. Depression
  9. Excessive dependence on someone

Source: Simply Psychology

Adib Mohd

Recent Posts

Timor-Leste’s Hidden Paradise? Whales, Coral Gardens, and a Journey Straight Into Your Heart

  Some destinations call to you softly; Timor-Leste sings. Step onto this island nation and… Read More

13 hours ago

Timor-Leste’s Lucky Charm? Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão is The Candy Maestro!

From the moment we took our first breath on Earth, Mom’s golden rule has surrounded… Read More

13 hours ago

AEON Shah Alam Is Back With a Fresh Look, Smarter Shopping, and New Flavours to Explore

AEON Shah Alam has officially reopened and it’s looking better than ever. The refreshed store… Read More

13 hours ago

New Brands, New Vibes: Pavilion Bukit Jalil Just Got Even More Exciting

There’s always something new to explore at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, and this time, the mall’s… Read More

13 hours ago

Sonos Pop-Up Takes Over The Starhill With Sound, Style & Vibes

If your Spotify Wrapped season is around the corner, it’s time to level up your… Read More

13 hours ago

Things To Know About UiTMSAT-2, Marking UiTM’s Second Leap Into Space

Things To Know About UiTMSAT-2, Marking UiTM’s Second Leap Into Space From lecture halls to… Read More

14 hours ago

This website uses cookies.