What is Stalking?

Stalking can generally be defined as a pattern of behavior that is directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. This means that stalking is not something that happens just once, but repeatedly over a period of time. Often times we joke about stalking in reference to social media, but it is a real and serious problem. With advances in technology, there has been an increase of stalking through the internet and cellphones.

Some common misconceptions of stalking are:

Myth: Stalkers only target celebrities and strangers.

Fact: Stalkers are much more likely to target someone that they know and many cases of stalking begin with dating abuse.

Myth: Stalkers are not violent.

Fact: This really depends on the person. Some stalkers can become violent, whereas others do not become violent.

Myth: It is not considered stalking if you are in a relationship with the person.

Fact: It is still considered stalking if your partner repeatedly monitors your activities, follows you, or harasses you.

Myth: Once a stalker sees you in another relationship they will leave you alone.

Fact: This is true for some stalkers, however; others might become enraged and begin to stalk follow both you and your partner.

Myth: The best thing to do is let the stalker down easy.

Fact: By “letting them down easy” you are leaving room for miscommunication. There should be a very clear message that you do not want any contact with them. Attempting to soften the blow by offering to remain friends or saying you will call them can be misleading. It is best to cut all ties and cease all contact.

Some safety planning tips for people experiencing stalking include:

·         Take screenshots/photos of any harassment that occurs online or on cellphones and write down where and when the events are happening

·         Treat all threats as legitimate and inform law enforcement if necessary

·         Do not interact with the person harassing or stalking you. (Responding to their actions might reinforce their behavior)

·         Try not to go out alone and stay in public areas.

·         Confide in a friend or a trusted adult.

·         Consider apply for a restraining order.

·         Write down a list of local resources that you can contact if you have any questions.

REMEMBER if you are in immediate danger always call 911. The Marjaree Mason Center offers a variety of services available for anyone in a domestic violence situation. If you need any help accessing these resources you can call the hotline at 559.233.HELP or visit their website mmcenter.org.