Stockholm syndrome

noun

Psychiatry.

1. an emotional attachment to a captor formed by a hostage as a result of continuous stress, dependence, and a need to cooperate for survival.

Stockholm syndrome

noun

1. a psychological condition in which hostages or kidnap victims become sympathetic towards their captors

Word History and Origins

Origin of Stockholm syndrome¹

After an incident in Stockholm in 1973, during which a bank employee became romantically attached to a robber who held her hostage

Word History and Origins

Origin of Stockholm syndrome¹

C20: after a group of hostages in Stockholm in 1973

Example Sentences

Mike: time to bring the Republican Party out of its Stockholm syndrome.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The president’s cabinet exhibits signs of Stockholm syndrome.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“Our legal team suspect a strong case of Stockholm Syndrome,” the organization posted on its Facebook page.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

One of the two charismatic criminals involved in the kidnapping that gave the world the term "Stockholm syndrome" has died aged 78, his family has said.

Read more on BBC

Experts have since debated whether Stockholm syndrome is an actual psychiatric condition, with some arguing it is a defence mechanism to cope with traumatic situations.

Read more on BBC