Sydney siege: Captives may consider option of fighting back - psychologist

Terrified customers and employees were among those standing with their hands against the window at the Lindt cafe in Sydney. Photo / Channel 7

Some hostages held in the Sydney cafe may have had thoughts of attacking the hostage takers as survival instincts "come to the fore", a psychologist says.

"Some males may be thinking about what they can do to attack the hostage takers," said psychologist Barry Kirker.

"But most will be telling themselves to let the authorities handle the matter and wait to be rescued, or for the situation to otherwise end."

Mr Kirker is a registered clinical psychologist in New Zealand and Australia, and had previously worked at the University of Sydney.

"In situations like this people's survival instincts usually come to the fore," he said. "Of course they will be terrified but they will be trying to contain themselves and tell themselves certain things such as keep calm, and keep on the good side of the hostage takers and co-operate with them. They will also likely be thinking about their loved ones and people important to them."

Mr Kirker, of South Auckland Psychology, said those who were really distressed or worried that they were in danger may see life events flashing before them.

But he said hostages who survived the situation may not necessarily suffer long term psychological problems as a result.

"It will depend on their past exposure to traumatic events and their personality type," said Mr Kirker.

"There are three general categories; some people will suffer some ongoing problems, some will get over it with time, and some will grow as a result of the experience."