**Charismatic Criminal Behind Stockholm Syndrome Passes Away at 78**

Olofsson's actions in the 1973 Stockholm bank heist led to a psychological phenomenon where hostages develop sympathy for their captors.

Clark Olofsson, the enigmatic figure whose involvement in a notorious 1973 kidnapping birthed the term "Stockholm syndrome," has passed away at age 78, according to family sources. He died following complications from a prolonged illness, as reported by Swedish media platform Dagens ETC.

The event that catapulted Olofsson into the global spotlight involved a bank robbery in Stockholm where he and his accomplice, Jan-Erik Olsson, held hostages for six tense days. During this incredible standoff, the captives developed feelings of sympathy towards Olofsson, even advocating for the kidnappers and expressing hostility towards the police. This phenomenon later became known as "Stockholm syndrome," outlining a psychological response where victims show loyalty or affection to their captors.

The incident kicked off when Olsson, who had previously developed a friendship with Olofsson in prison, demanded that Olofsson be brought in to assist with the heist. Swedish police acquiesced, setting the stage for the extraordinary events that would unfold. Reports indicate Olofsson attempted to ensure the safety of the hostages and even persuaded one, Kristin Enmark, to communicate with the Swedish prime minister, insisting on their benign treatment. Her comments became famous, as she stated, “I fully trust Clark and the robber… They haven’t done a thing to us.”

Olofsson’s dramatic siege concluded after law enforcement intervened; despite the chaotic resolution, the hostages exhibited reluctance to leave their captors for fear of police violence. Following the event, they chose not to testify against Olofsson and Olsson, fueling discussions about the complexities and implications of Stockholm syndrome.

Scholars have debated whether Stockholm syndrome is an established psychological condition or a protective psychological mechanism in the face of trauma. The phrase was introduced by Swedish criminologist Nils Bejerot, and its significance broadened with notable kidnap cases, including the abduction of heiress Patty Hearst.

In a 2021 interview, Enmark contested the validity of the term, framing it as a victim-blaming narrative that failed to acknowledge the terrifying reality of the situation. Olofsson himself had a tumultuous life, facing multiple incarcerations and only being released from prison for the last time in 2018 after serving time for a drug charge in Belgium.

His life story was depicted in a dramatized series titled "Clark," starring actor Bill Skarsgård, further immortalizing the events surrounding the infamous bank heist and the psychological complexities that ensued.