beta
So, I noticed this... Alot of people are confusing Stockholm syndrome(ss) and trauma Bonding(tb)..
What's basically happening isn't SS but TB. The MC is aware of the abuse and manipulation, but the "softness" during the calm is what he's latching into. It's a survival instinct, but also a way to keep himself in control, even if it's an illusion. He realized actually a specific way will keep him "loved'.
While SS occurs more short term hostage situations, and unexpectedly happens. TB is more gradual ... Basically"training " them to bond with their abuser.