Stalking
Definition:
Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted contact that puts a person in fear for their safety. This behavior can take many forms. For example, a stalker might follow the victim to work or use social networking sites like Facebook to gather information about them. Stalking is considered a crime in all 50 states; therefore, many resources exist to help you if you are being stalked.
By The Numbers
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More Facts About Stalking
- 3.4 million people over the age of 18 are stalked in the United States each year.
- About 1 in 5 female victims and 1 in 14 male victims experienced stalking between the ages 11 and 17.
- 1 in 6 women and 1 in 19 men have experienced stalking victimization at some point during their lifetime in which they felt very fearful or believed that they or someone close to them would be harmed or killed.
- 8% of women and 2% of men have been stalked at some time during their lives.
- 3 in 4 stalking victims are stalked by someone they know.
- 1 in 4 stalking victims are stalked through technological means.
- Approximately 1/3 of stalkers have stalked before.
- 76% of females who have been murdered by their intimate partners were stalked beforehand.
- Stalking is considered a crime in all 50 states.
Stalking Safety Tips
- Don’t try to reason with a stalker.
- Document all stalking related behavior. For example: keep copies of emails and text messages from the stalker.
- Treat all threats as legitimate and inform public safety or the police.
- Vary your routines and routes to work, school, and the store until you’ve seeked help and feel secure. Try not to travel alone.
Please click the following links for information related to stalking:*
- Stalking Brochure
- Stalking Presentation
- Social Networking Safety Tips
- National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC) Stalking Resource Center
*If you are unable to access PDF files, please call or email Abby’s House and we will send the materials to you in an alternate format.
