APA Dictionary of Psychology

an individual or groups of people held captive or incarcerated by an enemy during a war. Reactions to wartime captivity vary greatly from individual to individual but can include (a) depression due to loss of freedom and identity; (b) paranoia; (c) inertia and loss of interest due to confinement and debilitating conditions; (d) the effects of coercive persuasion, particularly if brainwashing is involved; (e) loss of ego strength; and (f) occasionally, death. See also postcaptivity health problems.