Stockholm syndrome novels don't need to be BL

In romance novels, Stockholm syndrome can add an edgy element. Sometimes it's misused, where it seems like the author is justifying an unhealthy relationship. However, when done right, it can show the psychological journey of a character. For instance, if a character is kidnapped and then starts to see the kidnapper in a different light due to the kidnapper showing some kindness. It makes readers question what love really is and how it can develop in strange circumstances.

Stockholm syndrome refers to the psychological reaction of victims of extreme violence such as kidnapping, abduction, abuse, sexual assault, etc. after being controlled and bullied for a long time. They are loyal, obedient, and dependent on the kidnappers or sexual assaulters, and are even willing to give everything for their actions. Stockholm Syndrome first appeared in 1973 in a bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden. There was a strange psychological relationship between the robber and the hostage. Later, this relationship became known as the Stockholm Syndrome. Stockholm syndrome was widely reflected and expressed in literature, movies, television dramas, and other fields. Among them, the more famous movies were Infernal Affairs, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and Qianxun.

It creates intense and complex emotional dynamics that draw readers in. The forbidden and unconventional aspect adds an element of excitement.

In stockholm syndrome romance novels, there is often an unequal power dynamic at the start. One character, usually the male, has some form of control or dominance over the other. For example, in a lot of historical romance novels set in a feudal context, the lord might hold power over a peasant girl. Then, there is the development of unexpected emotions. The character who is in the submissive position gradually starts to feel attraction or love towards the dominant one, often due to spending time together and the dominant one showing some form of kindness or protection.

They often involve a power imbalance. One character may hold more power over the other, which is a key aspect. For example, in a situation where one character is in a more dominant social or economic position.

In many romance novels, Stockholm syndrome is portrayed by a shift in the power dynamic. The victimized character begins to empathize with the one who has power over them. This could be because of small acts of kindness or just the passage of time in confinement. It's a way to create a complex and often morally ambiguous relationship within the story.

Typically, there may be a power imbalance. One character may hold power over the other, either through physical means or more often through emotional manipulation. For example, in some stories, a wealthy and influential gay man might control a younger, more vulnerable one.

In some romance novels, Stockholm syndrome might be shown as a complex emotional state. For example, the kidnapped or oppressed character may start to have feelings for the captor. It could be depicted through their internal monologues where they struggle with their initial fear and then gradually find themselves attracted. However, this is a very controversial portrayal as it blurs the lines between coercion and real love.

In fiction novels, one characteristic is the victim's unexpected empathy towards the captor. For example, in 'Lolita', Humbert Humbert is clearly a predator, but Lolita sometimes shows a strange sort of acceptance of him. Another is the gradual change in the victim's perception of the situation. Like in 'Beauty and the Beast', Belle starts to see the Beast in a different light over time.

Stockholm Syndrome occurs when a victim of a kidnapping or hostage situation develops positive feelings towards their captor. It's a complex psychological phenomenon that's not fully understood.