Stockholm syndrome is the phenomenon of feeling positive emotions towards one’s abuser. Although it is mainly associated with extreme situations such as kidnappings or assaults, it can also develop in everyday life, such as in a violent home environment or at work.
Stockholm syndrome – what is it and what does it involve? Causes
Stockholm syndrome is a psychological phenomenon associated with the emergence of positive emotions towards one’s abuser. The nature of the syndrome can vary depending on the situation in question, but one common feature is that the victim feels emotionally connected to their abuser, can empathise with their emotions and agree with their actions. It happens, for example, that victims of assault or kidnapping refuse to testify against their abuser later.
From a psychological point of view, it is quite difficult to explain the mechanism of this phenomenon, as there is still no indication of the personal factors that may favour susceptibility to the development of such a syndrome. A condition for its occurrence is the emergence of positive emotions between the abuser and the victim.
Added to this are other factors such as:
- A sense of fear and threat – the victim does not know what to expect from the abuser and therefore adopts a submissive, calm and conciliatory attitude towards him. He or she does not enter into discussions with the abuser and does everything possible not to provoke him or her;
- Victim’s belief that there is no way to escape – this creates a sense of helplessness and an attempt to save oneself in a ‘no-win situation’;
- A sense of isolation – the victim feels alone, making them feel that they have to deal with the situation on their own.
Stockholm syndrome can be a kind of defence mechanism. The victim feels alone and helpless, and at the same time does not know what to expect from the abuser. He or she therefore adapts to the situation, trying to avoid behaviour that might provoke the abuser. If, in addition, there are positive emotions on the part of (or towards) the abuser, a bond is very likely to form.
Stockholm syndrome – symptoms. How do you recognise it?
A symptom of Stockholm syndrome is, above all, feeling positive emotions towards the abuser. It also manifests itself in refusing to testify against the abuser and even taking sides. The victim may explain his/her abuser and justify his/her behaviour.
Other manifestations of the syndrome can be:
- a lack of desire (or a very weak desire) to escape from the abuser;
- sympathy towards the abuser;
- reluctance to enter therapy after the traumatic situation has ended.
Stockholm syndrome develops in psychologically difficult situations – involving violence, assault, kidnapping, etc. Although the victim develops a positive attitude towards the abuser, the event evokes such strong emotions that it is not without significance for the victim’s later functioning – especially if treatment is not undertaken.
People who have experienced a traumatic situation and the development of Stockholm syndrome may struggle with:
- anxiety neurosis and panic attacks;
- sleep disorders;
- chronic stress;
- social isolation and withdrawal from interpersonal relationships – the victim may have difficulty trusting and forming closer bonds;
- the phenomenon of learned helplessness, which can manifest itself in different areas of the person’s functioning (e.g. personal, professional);
- a lack of independence and the need to hand over control of one’s life to another person;
- a strong sense of guilt and low self-esteem.
In addition, mood problems and even depression can occur. For this reason, therapy is necessary with such traumatic experiences.
Stockholm syndrome in a relationship – when does it occur and what are the signs of it?
Stockholm syndrome in a relationship occurs especially when violence is present in the relationship.
Violence in a relationship has a certain developmental cycle. Initially, there are strong positive emotions and a sense of bonding between partners. A key moment is the first blow – the victim experiences shock, while the abuser feels guilt and apologises sincerely.
Over time, however, the frequency of the violence increases and the abuser stops making excuses for his or her behaviour, while the victim – still having positive emotions for the abuser – starts to justify his or her behaviour; feels guilty and takes responsibility for the violence on the part of the partner. As a result, people who are victims of relationship violence usually need a long time to decide to end the relationship. Sometimes they continue in violent relationships for years.
Stockholm syndrome can also develop when the victim experiences psychological violence – being humiliated and humiliated.
Stockholm syndrome at work – can it happen?
Stockholm syndrome can also occur in the workplace. This refers to situations where bullying is taking place. This is when the victim usually occupies a lower position than the abuser and faces humiliation and indignity from the abuser. Bullying is also the blatant restriction of development opportunities for the employee concerned.
Unfortunately, such a situation in the workplace often makes the victim feel helpless – they do not want to lose their job, so they start to accept inappropriate behaviour and justify their abuser.
How to treat Stockholm syndrome?
Stockholm syndrome is a very difficult experience and quite a complicated phenomenon, so it always requires treatment under the guidance of a specialist – a psychotherapist. Depending on the experience and the accompanying symptoms, appropriate medication may also be recommended. The basis, however, is to work with a psychotherapist so that the victim can better understand their situation and the emotions that arise. Working with a therapist also helps to regain self-confidence and to break free emotionally from the abuser.
