Source: societyforpsychotherapy.org

What is the Stockholm Syndrome?

The Stockholm Syndrome, named after a bank robbery in Stockholm where hostages developed positive feelings towards their captors, is a psychological phenomenon where a person begins to identify with and even support their oppressor.

In the corporate world, this can manifest in employees who feel trapped in their job and begin to support and defend the very systems and dynamics that are contributing to their unhappiness.

In the workplace, the Stockholm Syndrome can manifest in a variety of ways. For example, an employee may develop a sense of loyalty to their company, even if they are mistreated or undervalued by their employers. They may feel a sense of responsibility for the success of the company, and may be reluctant to speak out against unethical practices or policies.

The dynamics of a corporate environment can contribute to the development of the Stockholm Syndrome in employees in several ways.

First, many corporate environments are set up in a way that makes employees feel like they have no control. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and vulnerability, which can trigger the development of Stockholm syndrome.

Second, the pressure to conform and fit in within a corporate environment can make employees feel like they have no choice but to go along with the demands and expectations of their superiors. This can lead to a sense of isolation and fear of reprisal, which can also contribute to the development of this syndrome.

Third, the high level of competition and stress in many corporate settings can make employees feel threatened and afraid. This can lead to a desire to please and gain the approval of their superiors, which can further contribute to the development of Stockholm Syndrome.

What about the UX field?

Photo by Harpal Singh on Unsplash

The UX field is particularly susceptible to this syndrome, as UX professionals are often expected to work long hours and meet demanding deadlines.

They may also face pressure to prioritize the needs of the company over the needs of the user. In these situations, UX professionals may find themselves sacrificing their own well-being in order to please their superiors and maintain their job security.

One example of the Stockholm Syndrome in the UX field is when a UX professional stays in a toxic work environment because they believe that leaving would be too risky or disruptive to their career.

Another example: A UX professional may be tasked with designing a website or app that pushes users to make frequent purchases, even if they may not be able to afford it or may not actually want or need the products being sold.

In this situation, the UX professional may find themselves feeling trapped, as if they have no choice but to support and defend the company’s goals, even if it goes against their own moral compass.

This can lead to burnout, as the UX professional may struggle with the disconnect between their personal values and the demands of their job.

The last example is that a UX professional may be asked to design a social media platform that is addictive and keeps users engaged for long periods of time. While this may be good for the company’s bottom line, it can have negative effects on the users, such as reducing their ability to focus or increasing their anxiety and depression.

In this situation, the UX professional may feel a sense of loyalty to the company and may be reluctant to speak out against the harmful effects of the product on users.

To avoid falling victim to the Stockholm Syndrome in their work, UX professionals should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect themselves.

This can include setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, such as taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support from friends and colleagues. It’s also important for UX professionals to recognize when their work environment is toxic and to consider finding a new job if necessary.

The negative effects of the Stockholm Syndrome on UX professionals can include burnout, poor mental health, and a lack of fulfillment in their work. These effects can ultimately impact the quality of their work and the user experience, leading to negative outcomes for both the company and the user.

Photo by Matthew Osborn on Unsplash

It’s important to remember that you are not alone in feeling trapped in the corporate maze.

Many people experience the Stockholm Syndrome at work, and there are resources and support available to help you break free and thrive in your career. Don’t let the corporate maze control your life and career — take control and make positive changes for yourself.

What are your thoughts on this subject? Let me know in the comments; I would love to read it!