Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free

Behind the Myth: The Truth About the Berlin Syndrome

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Original Berlin

Introduction

Do you know what Berlin Syndrome means? It is or something that has now made it into main stream culture, portrayed in movies, books and such other stuff. That raises a question: is the Berlin Syndrome a genuine mental disorder or a purely fictional entity?

Understanding Berlin Syndrome

As you know, Berlin syndrome was named after the novel and the movie of the same name, shot in 2017, 2011. I like to consider them as the three phases of the woman’s journey in the plot: she comes to Berlin and becomes involved in an abusive relationship with a man. Although the story may be interesting to read it will be important to make a distinction between the real and imaginary world.

For the record, it should be pointed out that the Berlin Syndrome is not an official psychiatric disorder as is classified by medical and psychiatric communities. It is an artificial concept created by the writers and movie makers for use in their productions. But this does not necessarily imply that all the themes discussed in the concept are entirely groundless.

To be more precise we are going to analyze the phenomenon of real-life stalking and obsessive relationships.

Though this term is not present in the professional language, the actions described in the Berlin Syndrome have their reflection in reality. Stalking and obsession are not new phenomena and all of us may become victims no matter where we live. It is important that we should gain knowledge about these factors to minimize and effectively manage some occurrences.

Stalking

Stalking refers to a criminal act of placing unwanted, intimidating or pestering acts to another person. In its most typical form it is expressed as stalking and may involve following, tracking or otherwise spying on a person against their wish. Stalking can be in form of physical contact, through psychological harassment or even electronic surveillance.

In case you are involving yourself in a situation where you think you are being harassed by some people, you should report this to the police and make sure that, you collect any proof that will support your accusations. You are extremely valuable to us, and there are resources that can be provided should the unforeseen occur.

Obsessive Relationships

Obsessive love, sometimes referred to as a love obsession, or obsessive love disorder, is the unhealthy preoccupation with another individual. It comprises paranoia, jealousy, jealousy that is even if unreasonable, Frequently requiring confirmation, and possessiveness along with obsession. It goes without saying that such a type of relationship can have negative repercussions on all the participants, psychological and emotional robotics.

So, if you feel that your relationship is an obsessive one you are encouraged to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can offer advice, encouragement, and correct strategies for dealing with such relationships and issue solutions for the good of your health.

Elaborating Psychopathological Disorders

Although Berlin Syndrome is not a framed psychological disorder, it should be appreciated that there are in fact legitimate psychological disorders. Diseases like Stockholm Syndrome, Borderline Personality Disorder and Dependent Personality Disorder extend to showing how additional intimate power dynamic can form.

Such psychological conditions may not be manifested in the same way by each person and he/she might need a professional help. If one has any doubt that they or a friend or a family member has a psychological disorder, they should see a psychologist for diagnosis.

Conclusion

While the Berlin Syndrome cannot be considered as a genuine psychological disorder, it unmasks real problems of stalking and obsessed relationships. Knowing the differences between fiction and reality will help to consider these issues from a different angle. We need safety, we should ask for help, and there are real mental disorders that can affect people.

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • 3.5 hours walking tour
  • Berlin’s major highlights
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag and Berlin Wall
  • Historical sites

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free