Gendered Dimensions of Stockholm Syndrome: Examining Trauma Bonding Among Women and Girls Held by Boko Haram

Safiya Shettima Umar (), Dr. Kaltum Abdullahi Talba (), Sadiq Mohammed Kachallah () and Kiramat Farayola Suleiman Lawal ()

Journal of Gender Related Studies, 2026, vol. 7, issue 1, 1 - 9

Abstract: Purpose: This article examines Stockholm Syndrome in the context of Boko Haram insurgency. Methodology: It employed a doctrinal research methodology to achieve these objectives. Findings: The paper argues that trauma bonding in Boko Haram captivity is shaped by cycles of violence, dependency, indoctrination, and gendered power structures. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The research contributes to interdisciplinary knowledge by linking trauma bonding theories with legal frameworks governing sexual violence, forced marriage, and crimes against humanity. It demonstrates how psychological survival responses should be legally interpreted as evidence of coercion rather than consent, thereby informing accountability, reparations, and victim-status determinations under international law. It further analyses the implications for reintegration, counterterrorism, transitional justice, and survivor-centred psychosocial support. The study concludes by recommending the integration of trauma-informed mental-health frameworks, culturally grounded reintegration models, and survivor-centred rehabilitation policies.

Keywords: Boko Haram; Stockholm Syndrome; Trauma Bonding; Women and Girls; Coercive Control; Conflict-Related Sexual Violence; Nigeria (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:bhx:ojjgrs:v:7:y:2026:i:1:p:1-9:id:3422

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