Stockholm syndrome or Stockholm syndrome is a psychological response from hostage victims who feel sympathetic, voluntary obedience, even appearing affection towards the offender.
Stockholm syndrome was introduced by a criminologist, Nils Bejerot based on a bank robbery case that occurred in 1973 in Stockholm, Sweden. In this case, the hostages actually formed an emotional bond with the perpetrators despite being held for 6 days. Even refused to testify, and helped raise funds for legal aid perpetrators.
Factors Underlying the Arise of Stockholm Syndrome
Generally the kidnappers treat victims very harshly which causes hatred, but in Stockholm syndrome the opposite happens. The victims felt sympathy for the perpetrators.
There are several factors that underlie Stockholm syndrome, namely:
- The hostage-takers and victims are in the same room and pressure.
- A crisis situation lasts for several days or longer.
- The hostage takers show kindness to the hostages or at least refrain from hurting them.
Uniquely, the condition of Stockholm syndrome experienced by victims, can facilitate the victims in dealing with excessive stress due to hostage taking.
Recognize the Symptoms of Stockholm Syndrome
Like other syndromes, Stockholm syndrome also consists of a collection of symptoms. These symptoms are generally almost the same as the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms include:
- Easily shocked
- Restless
- Nightmare
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hard to believe
- Feel like you are not in reality
- Always reminiscing about times of trauma (flashback)
- No longer enjoy a previously pleasant experience.
But in addition to these symptoms, in Stockholm syndrome there are other symptoms in the form of negative feelings towards family and friends who try to save him, and support the reasons and behavior of the offender.
How to Deal with Stockholm Syndrome
To treat victims who have Stockholm syndrome, psychiatrists will generally use the pattern of overcoming the traumatic situation experienced by the victim during abduction or hostage taking. The diagnosis that psychiatrists usually use is that of PTSD.
There is no specific treatment for sufferers of Stockholm syndrome. Some patients are given medication to overcome the anxiety they experience. This drug is commonly used for PTSD sufferers.
In addition, group therapy is a method often used in dealing with Stockholm syndrome. Victims will learn to control emotions and form new relationships with other people through similar situations.
There is also family therapy for victims of Stockholm syndrome, so they can talk about their feelings and worries openly. That way, families can find out better ways to help them.
Stockholm syndrome is a condition that is not commonly felt by victims of hostages. It is possible that the victim must get psychiatric help to help recover from the condition.
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