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Key questions to consider in stalking cases.
Lorraine Sheridan1, Karl Roberts
1School of Life Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK. l.sheridan@hw.ac.uk
Behavioral Sciences & the Law
|January 29, 2011
Summary
Police can now better identify dangerous stalkers using 11 key questions derived from 1,565 victim responses. Victim fear is a critical indicator of severe violence risk from stalkers.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Forensic Psychology
- Victimology
Background:
- Stalking poses a significant threat, with potential for severe injury and homicide.
- Previous research has explored correlates of stalking violence, but identification tools remain crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a set of questions to aid law enforcement in identifying potentially dangerous stalkers.
- To assess the relationship between victim perception of fear and the risk of severe violence.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of detailed responses from 1,565 stalking victims.
- Regression analyses to identify correlates of physical assault and severe violence.
- Preliminary testing of an 11-question identification tool.
Main Results:
- High levels of victim fear were the most significant correlate of severe violence (n=136).
- Findings on correlates of physical assault and severe violence align with previous research.
- The developed 11-question set demonstrated good performance in preliminary evaluations.
Conclusions:
- Victims' assessment of their own risk is a valuable indicator of potential stalker violence.
- The 11-question tool offers a promising method for police to identify high-risk stalking situations.
- Further validation and implementation of the tool are recommended for improved victim safety.
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