Citation

Mullen PE, Pathé M. Crime Justice 2002; 29: 273-318.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, University of Chicago Press)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Stalking has emerged as a significant social problem. Antistalking legislation has been introduced in most Western nations. The nature, prevalence, and impact of stalking are only now being systematically studied. There are debates on how best to conceptualize stalking and how to understand what drives stalkers persistently to pursue and harass the targets of their unwanted attentions. The prevalence of being victimized by stalkers is relatively high, with those subjected to extended periods of harassment often suffering both significant psychological damage and being at risk of physical and sometimes sexual assault. A variety of strategies have been developed to curb and prevent stalking and to relieve the distress of victims.