Definition of captor manual#

Subsequently, this term has been used to label the condition that occurs when hostages develop an emotional or psychological connection to the people who held them in captivity. The development of Stockholm Syndrome is thought to be a coping mechanism to survive in life-threatening situations. It is believed to be a psychological response which can develop of the course of days, weeks, months, or even years of captivity or abuse. This condition does not seem to happen in every captive situation, and it is unclear why this does occur at all.

Definition of captor manual#

Stockholm Syndrome is believed to be rare, the Federal Bureau of Investigation estimating that fewer than 8% of kidnapping victims show evidence of Stockholm Syndrome.ĭespite becoming well-known, Stockholm Syndrome is not considered a mental disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) with many researchers denying that the condition exists at all. Many may attribute the feelings of Stockholm Syndrome to other conditions or believe this phenomenon is merely an aspect of emotional abuse or trauma bonding. It is not entirely clear why some people may develop Stockholm Syndrome. It is thought to be a survival mechanism in the way that a person may create bonds with their captor as a method of coping with the extreme and scary situation they are in. There are believed to be some key factors which may be necessary to increase the likelihood that someone will develop Stockholm Syndrome:īeing in an emotionally charged situation for an extended period of time.

īeing in a shared space with the captor, with the space having poor conditions e.g., a lack of food or being physically uncomfortable.

The hostage is dependant on the captor for their basic needs such as accessing food and water. The hostage has not been dehumanized by the captor.

The situation lasts for several days or longer. The captor and the hostage have meaningful interactions which provide opportunities to bond with one another. The captor shows some kindness towards the hostage or refrains from harming them.

Ī reliance on the captor to survive the emotionally charged situation.

Individuals in these kinds of situations may begin to have confusing feelings towards their captor as a result of the above factors.Ī kidnapped person often feelings threatened by their captor, but they are also highly reliant on them for survival. They may have feelings of sympathy, empathy, or even love towards their captor, as well as a desire to protect them.