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.
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.
In fiction books, a common characteristic is the captor - captive relationship. For example, like in 'Beauty and the Beast', the Beast initially holds Belle captive. Then, the captive starts to feel sympathy or even love for the captor. This often involves the captor showing some form of 'kindness' within the context of the captivity, which blurs the lines between fear and affection.
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 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.
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.
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.
In fiction books about Stockholm syndrome, a key characteristic is the power dynamic. The captor has power over the victim, like in 'The Collector'. But as time passes, the victim may start to rationalize the captor's actions. They might feel gratitude for small kindnesses shown by the captor. For instance, if the captor gives the victim some extra food or a book to read. Also, there can be a Stockholm - like relationship in non - traditional captivity situations, as in 'Gone Girl' where the wife has psychological power over her husband in a different kind of 'captivity' within their marriage. This shows that in fiction, the concept of Stockholm syndrome can be quite fluid and complex.