Citation

Sheridan L. J. Threat Assess. 2001; 1(3): 61-79.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J177v01n03_03

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper presents results from a survey of stalking victims in the United Kingdom. In-depth questionnaire data were drawn upon to investigate the course and nature of prolonged stalking in 29 self-defined victims. Almost half of the stalkers had a history of stalking behavior and a high proportion did not operate alone. Results revealed that the response of authorities varied. The data also showed that stalking is not constant and both the behavior of stalkers and responses of victims transform over time. For instance, although the stalkers decreased the overall amount of direct contact they had with their victims, they tended to become more violent. Victims initially reported feeling terrified, but were more likely to report feeling tired, depressed or angry as the stalking continued.