Criminal who helped inspire 'Stockholm syndrome' theory dies

Jun 26, 2025
BBC News
Criminal who helped inspire 'Stockholm syndrome' theory dies
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``` # Criminal who helped inspire 'Stockholm syndrome' theory dies

The Stockholm Syndrome Allegory

The man who epitomized the controversial "Stockholm syndrome" theory has passed away. Nils Bejerot, the Swedish criminologist who coined the term in the 1970s, has died at the age of 97. Bejerot's theory suggested that victims of kidnapping or hostage situations can develop positive feelings toward their captors, a concept widely debated and criticized for its implications. His work was instrumental in understanding the complex dynamics of criminal and hostage situations and has provided insights into the psychological aspects of captivity. Although the theory remains a subject of scholarly and public debate, Bejerot's work continues to influence criminal psychology and inspire future research.

A Dark Chapter in Criminal Psychology

The "Stockholm syndrome" theory remains a controversial concept. The theory suggests that victims of crime can develop positive feelings toward their captors. While some experts believe it explains the complexities of hostage situations, others view it as a simplistic explanation for traumatic experiences. This debate has been fueled by the recent death of Nils Bejerot, the Swedish criminologist who coined the term. Bejerot's work continues to inspire interest and further research in the field of criminal psychology, despite the ethical and philosophical dilemmas it raises.

Original source: BBC News