Types Of Stalking

“Stalking” is a term used to describe harassment or contact that is unwanted and repeated. 1 in 6 women and 1 in 19 men have been stalked in their lives (stalking statistics, 2014). This is a very serious crime that is often overlooked due to embarrassment or underestimating the severity of it. However, stalking can become violent very quickly. Some only threaten their victims and never go any further (stalking,2014), but other cases can become quite severe. Stalkers are usually socially awkward, immature, and jealous (stalking,2014). The three types of stalking are simple obsessional, cyberstalking, and false victimization syndrome.

Simple Obsessional

Simple obsessional stalking is the most common type. It usually involves two ex-spouses, and the stalker is trying to mend the relationship.The stalker starts obsessing when the relationship has ended (emotionally disturbed/mentally ill stalkers, 2014). This type of stalking can lead to domestic violence.

The perpetrator is usually trying to seek revenge because he/she feels betrayed by the victim (forms of stalking, 2014). The perpetrator is usually trying to seek revenge on the victim because he/she might have broken his/ her heart. The perpetrator is in most cases male and has had a previous relationship with the victim. He/she is obsessed with mending the relationship between, and trying to seek revenge (about stalkers, 2014).

The victim is usually female. It is crucial to be careful if one starts noticing signs that they are being stalked, because the perpetrator can become violent quickly. If one starts to notice signs of stalking behavior, it is critical to record every interaction he/she had with the stalker and tell a family member or trusted friend (forms of stalki...

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...ical paralysis, which is when a person pretends to have a paralyzed limb so they don’t have to do certain things, Munchausen, when a person acts out symptoms of certain illnesses so people will think that they are ill, and Munchausen by proxy, when a person creates symptoms in other people to make others think they are ill. The perpetrator may have many motives such as a mental illness, they are seeking sympathy, financial problems, or revenge (types of stalkers, 2014).

Conclusion

Stalking is a serious crime that can lead to many years in prison. Stalkers come in different forms and stalk in many different ways. It is crucial to take precautions to ensure you protect yourself from becoming a victim of this horrible crime. If you notice any suspicious behavior, or feel like you are a victim of stalking call law enforcement or call a help line before it’s too late.