Survivors of terror: Battered women, hostages, and the Stockholm Syndrome.

Abstract

This article discusses the similarities and differences that exist between hostages and battered women. It also explains the Stockholm Syndrome its underlying psychological mechanisms and the principles of behavior for hostage survival. The Stockholm Syndrome is described as a positive psychological bond developed by hostages and battered women toward their captors or abusers. Comparisons of the similarities and differences between these groups revealed greater empathy and societal support for hostages who in contrast to battered women seem to suffer less actual physical abuse and whose ordeals are more likely to be short term. Treatment implications for viewing the battered woman as a hostage exhibiting Stockholm Syndrome were explored. Seeing the battered woman as manifesting Stockholm Syndrome may help therapists to be more understanding of why it is difficult for the woman to leave the batterer and why she often returns. Meanwhile understanding the dynamics of the Stockholm Syndrome gives the battered woman an alternative perspective that may help her let go of the battering relationship at a cognitive and emotional level and prevent relapses.

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