Josholm Syndrom

Closely related to the Stockholm Syndrom, the Josholm Syndrom is a coping mechanism to an abusive situation in which an individual develops admiration towards their abuser over time due to strong dependency on the abuser. The Josholm Syndrom can be observed in professional environments and within friend groups. It typically develops when a (perceived) superior or individual of higher social status starts verbally abusing the victim by cracking inappropriate jokes, downplaying their abilities and / or highlighting their inabilities in public and private settings. While most healthy humans tend to stand up for themselves or report the abuser, victims suffering from Josholm Syndrom will start to look up to the abuser in fear that retaliation could lead to a further decline of their career or social status and will ultimately start to adore the abuser. Victims will typically falsely believe or will be made to believe that they are part of the inner friend cycle of the abuser. The Josholm Syndrom is mostly observed in individuals with low self-esteem and little character.