Stop the Stalker: A Comprehensive Guide for Targets

Stalking is a serious crime that can have a devastating impact on its victims. If you are being stalked, it is important to seek help immediately. This guide will provide you with information on how to identify stalking, what steps you can take to protect yourself, and what resources are available to help you.

What is Stalking?

Stalking is a pattern of unwanted contact or pursuit that causes fear or emotional distress in the victim. It can include a range of behaviors, such as:

Stop the Stalker: A Guide For Targets

by BETSY RAMSEY

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Language	:	English
File size	:	451 KB
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• Following or approaching the victim in person or online
• Repeated phone calls, text messages, or emails

li>Sending unwanted gifts or leaving them at the victim's home or workplace

• Monitoring the victim's activities or social media
• Threatening or harassing the victim or their loved ones

Stalking can be a very frightening experience. It can make victims feel unsafe and anxious, and it can disrupt their daily lives. In some cases, stalking can even escalate to violence.

Who Stalks?

Anyone can be a stalker, but there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of someone becoming a stalker. These include:

• A history of domestic violence or relationship problems
• Mental health problems, such as schizophrenia or obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Substance abuse problems
• A history of stalking or harassment

Stalkers often have a sense of entitlement towards their victims. They may believe that the victim owes them something, or that they are in love with them and the victim simply does not realize it yet.

What to Do If You Are Being Stalked

If you are being stalked, it is important to take action to protect yourself. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Document the stalking behavior. Keep a record of all unwanted contact, including dates, times, and methods. Screenshots of text messages, emails, or social media posts can also be helpful.
2. Report the stalking to the police. Filing a police report will create a record of the stalking and may lead to the stalker being arrested or charged with a crime.
3. Get a restraining order. A restraining order is a court order that prohibits the stalker from contacting or approaching you. If you obtain a restraining order, be sure to follow it carefully and report any violations to the police.
4. Tell your friends and family about the stalking. Let them know what is going on and ask them to be supportive. They can help you by providing emotional support, keeping an eye out for the stalker, and reporting any suspicious activity to the police.
5. Take steps to protect yourself. This may include changing your locks, installing a security system, or varying your daily routine. You may also want to consider carrying a pepper spray or other self-defense weapon.

Resources for Victims of Stalking

There are a number of resources available to help victims of stalking. These resources include:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• The National Stalking Resource Center: 1-800-FYI-CALL (394-2255)
• The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

These organizations can provide you with information, support, and referrals to local resources.

Stalking is a serious crime that can have a devastating impact on its victims. If you are being stalked, it is important to seek help immediately. By taking action to protect yourself and reporting the stalking to the police, you can help to end the harassment and regain control of your life.

Additional Resources

• The Hotline: What is Stalking?
• National Crime Victim Center: Stalking
• Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): Stalking

Stop the Stalker: A Guide For Targets

by BETSY RAMSEY

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	451 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	124 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE