Stalking is two or more unwanted actions towards another person intended to control, threaten, harass or frighten. Stalking is serious, often violent, and can escalate over time. Many people experience stalking in the context of an abusive relationship or when a relationship has ended, however, survivors can be stalked by acquaintances or strangers.
Stalking tactics can include:
Monitoring of victims while they are in the abusive relationship
Purposes: Domination and control; economic control; isolation
Occurring post-separation of an abusive relationship
Purposes: Intimidation; punishment for leaving relationship; desire to still control victim; not accepting relationship is over; in some cases can be accompanied by attempt to kill victim
Before and/or after assault
Purposes: Targeting and selection of victims prior to assault; To intimidate and silence survivors after assault to increase chance victim will not report abuse
Minimal or no dating or intimate relationship history
Purposes: Fulfilling a fantasy of having a relationship; desire to control
Obsession; often occurs with famous people
Purposes: Fulfilling a fantasy of being part of a person’s life; desire to control
If you believe you are being stalked, feel free to contact the MSU Center for Survivors to discuss safety planning and options. You might also consider exploring our Safety Information.
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