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Review
. 2008 Jan;117(1):4-11.
doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.2007.01112.x. Epub 2007 Nov 19.

'Stockholm syndrome': psychiatric diagnosis or urban myth?

M Namnyak  1 , N Tufton, R Szekely, M Toal, S Worboys, E L Sampson
Affiliations
Review

'Stockholm syndrome': psychiatric diagnosis or urban myth?

M Namnyak et al. Acta Psychiatr Scand. 2008 Jan.

Abstract

Objective: 'Stockholm syndrome' is a term used to describe the positive bond some kidnap victims develop with their captor. High-profile cases are reported by the media although the diagnosis is not described in any international classification system. Here we review the evidence base on 'Stockholm syndrome'.

Method: Databases (PubMED, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL) were systematically searched. We compared features of cases widely reported in the English language media to identify common themes which may form a recognizable syndrome.

Results: We identified 12 papers that met inclusion criteria. The existing literature consists mostly of case reports; furthermore there is ambiguity in the use of the term. No validated diagnostic criteria have been described. Four common features were found between the five cases studied.

Conclusion: There is little published academic research on 'Stockholm syndrome' although study of media reports reveals similarities between well publicized cases. This may be due to reporting and publication bias.

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