Stalking is a pattern of repeated behavior directed at a specific individual with the intent to cause fear and emotional distress. It is a crime that affects millions of people annually. However, it is a topic that is not taken seriously unless you have experienced it firsthand or know someone it has impacted. To raise awareness, here is everything you need to know about stalking and how to protect yourself.
What Classifies as Stalking?
Common stalking behaviors include following an individual either in person or using GPS, surveilling them from a distance, visiting a victim’s workplace or home without consent, and sending unwanted gifts. Verbal threats and nonconsensual communication via text and phone calls can also qualify as stalking.
It can also be committed using online methods, such as social media and email. This is commonly referred to as cyberstalking. A few examples of cyberstalking include creating fake profiles, monitoring every post a victim makes online, hacking or locking victims out of their accounts, and posting personal information to control and damage their reputations.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
While stalking is illegal in all 50 states, the definition and laws of this crime can vary by state. It is essential to research and educate yourself on your state and local stalking laws.
Who is Impacted by Stalking?
Stalking is a crime that can cause physical, emotional, and psychological effects to both men and women. According to the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center, one in three women and one in six men will become victims of stalking in their lifetime.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
Additionally, many people are stalked by someone they know, such as a former or current partner. Stalking can lead to severe depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulty trusting others, and self-isolation.
Contacting Local Authorities
If you believe you are being stalked, you must contact your local authorities and report the incident immediately. Each time an incident occurs, documenting the time, location, and other important details is extremely beneficial when building a case against a stalker. For extra protection, you can even request a restraining order.
Do Not Contact
Whether it be positive or negative, stalkers want a reaction from you. Once you have made it clear that you want the behavior to stop, do not respond to messages, phone calls, emails, or direct messages. Likewise, if you are given a gift from your stalker, do not attempt to return it.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
The best course of action is to keep everything as evidence, including taking screenshots for cyberstalking cases.
Let People Know
After informing the police, it is also important to let your friends, family, and even your employer know you are being stalked. By informing others, they can help keep you safe and step in if need be. Additionally, trusted people can provide emotional support and help victims feel that they are not alone in their situation.
Switch Up Your Routine
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
One way to protect yourself from stalking is by changing your routine. Stalkers often rely on learning their victim’s routine and habits to gain a sense of control over them. By modifying your day-to-day schedule, you can make it challenging for stalkers to track your movements. This will prevent them from either following or confronting you in public.
Practicing Home Safety Methods
When dealing with a stalker, home security is not only essential for your safety but also your peace of mind. One easy way to protect your home is by changing the locks on your doors and windows. This is especially important if a stalker is a former partner or acquaintance who has had access to your home. You can also install deadbolts, install proper outdoor lighting, and invest in a good-quality security camera.
The Best Personal Protection
At the end of the day, one of the best preventative measures against stalking is being aware of your surroundings. Practicing situational awareness can help identify behaviors and know when to act before they occur. Furthermore, it goes without saying that owning some form of protection is another ideal way to prioritize your safety.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
Pepper spray, stun guns, knives, and firearms are great options to consider. These tools not only level the playing field but also give you the confidence to protect yourself if necessary. Be sure to properly educate yourself on how to effectively use each tool and research your state and local laws for each one.
Final Thoughts
Stalking is often misunderstood as an act with no consequences. However, it is a crime that has many negative effects on its victims, leading to them feeling powerless.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
By documenting and reporting the behavior, cutting off contact, switching up your routine, securing your home, practicing situational awareness, and taking personal protection measures, you can reclaim your power and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others against this crime.
