The Strange Case of Mary McElroy and Stockholm Syndrome

In 1933, a group of masked men invaded the home of a wealthy judge in Kansas City. The target of their attack was not the judge, who was absent, but his 25-year-old daughter, Mary McElroy.

She was in the bathtub when the men arrived, and they demanded that she get dressed and come with them. Their plan was to hold her for ransom. When Mary asked how much, one of the men replied, "$60,000." Mary responded, "I'm worth more than that!" The men took her to a house where they chained her up in the basement. Mary was released after the gang received $30,000.

Check: The Dangers of Holding in Your Pee

Mary's behavior after the ordeal was perplexing. She showed support for the men who had imprisoned her and visited them in prison. She wrote a letter to the governor, requesting clemency for the gang's leader who was sentenced to be hanged. Unfortunately, Mary took her own life at the age of 33.

Mary exhibited unusual behavior, but it is not uncommon. Her actions were a result of Stockholm Syndrome, a condition where hostages or abuse victims develop feelings of loyalty or affection for their captors or abusers. The term was coined after a bank robbery that occurred in Stockholm, Sweden, during which hostages developed a bond with their captors. At the time of Mary's kidnapping, this condition was not yet identified or named.

During an incident, a man named Jan-Erik Olsson entered a bank, committed robbery, and took four individuals hostage. Over the course of six days, the hostages formed a relationship with Olsson, with one even coming to his defense. Upon Olsson's arrest, the hostages expressed concern for his well-being.

Check: The Science of Kissing

The term "Stockholm Syndrome" has become well-known due to the infamous 1973 bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden.

During the incident, the hostages formed an emotional bond with their captors, defending them even after their release. This phenomenon has since been observed in various situations, including domestic abuse, cults, and prisoners of war. Stockholm Syndrome is characterized by the victim developing feelings of empathy and even affection towards their captor or abuser. It is a complex psychological response to trauma that can have long-lasting effects on the victim's mental health.

So, what causes Stockholm Syndrome?

Stockholm Syndrome is believed to be caused by a coping mechanism, according to psychologists. When faced with a life-threatening situation, the victim's survival instincts activate, and they seek to reduce the perceived threat. The captor often has complete control over the victim's life, leading the victim to empathize with the captor's perspective to gain a sense of control. This behavior is not a conscious decision, but a psychological response to the circumstances.

Individuals with Stockholm Syndrome may find it difficult to accept their emotions towards their captors or abusers. It is crucial to acknowledge that these emotions are a coping mechanism and do not reflect their beliefs or character. Additionally, victims may experience feelings of guilt regarding their emotions, which can exacerbate their psychological distress.

Check: Understanding Trauma Bonding

The treatment for Stockholm Syndrome involves therapy to address underlying psychological issues.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be helpful for victims, as it helps them identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Stress management techniques and education about healthy boundaries and relationships may also be included in therapy.

Stockholm Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that can arise when a victim experiences a loss of control and perceives a threat to their life. Despite being a complex issue that is not fully understood, it is crucial to acknowledge that the victim's emotions are a reaction to the situation and not indicative of their character. Through appropriate treatment and support, individuals affected by Stockholm Syndrome can recover and progress in their lives.