Trauma Bonding VS Stockholm Syndrome

Both trauma bonding and Stockholm Syndrome involve dangerous and complex emotional attachments to abusers or captors. The distinction between them is subtle, and it can even be argued that Stockholm Syndrome is a more specific form of trauma bonding.

When a person forms a strong emotional attachment to their abuser due to a constant cycle of abuse followed by intermittent positive reinforcement and protection, it is known as trauma bonding. The situation may not always be drastic, but it can still trap the consciousness of the abused, leaving them stuck in a negative environment. This type of case is commonly seen in domestic violence, child abuse, and exploitative work environments. The cycle of abuse and reconciliation plays tricks on the victim’s mind, often leading them to believe they are overreacting and exaggerating the severity of their situation. In reality, the occasional moments of affection distract them from the abuse.

Signs and symptoms of trauma bonding include:

- Difficulty in leaving abusive relationships.

- Defending the abuser’s behavior.

- Feeling loyal to the abuser despite the abuse.

- Feeling trapped.

Stockholm Syndrome is a specific type of trauma bonding that occurs when hostages or kidnapping victims develop positive feelings towards their captors. This syndrome, named after a bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1973 where hostages defended their captors after being released, is often romanticized but remains a frightening mental state. It is extremely similar to trauma bonding in that the captor’s occasional kindness or reluctance to harm creates a bond with the victim. It is the captive’s survival instinct that tricks them into creating a bond as a way to cope with stress and the threat to their life.

Symptoms of Stockholm Syndrome include:

- Developing positive feelings towards the captor.

- Negative feelings toward authorities trying to rescue them.

- Loss of victim identity.

- Difficulty in accepting the captor’s abusive behavior.

The key differences between Trauma bonding and Stockholm Syndrome are:

- Trauma bonding occurs over a prolonged period, whereas Stockholm Syndrome develops quickly in response to high-stress situations.

- Trauma bonding occurs in ongoing relationships with abuse, while Stockholm Syndrome arises in acute life-threatening situations.

- Trauma bonding can occur in any situation with abuse, while Stockholm Syndrome is specific to kidnapping and hostage situations.

-Kyra Grewal and Saisha Kapoor