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Stalking. Part I: An overview of the problem
1Department of Psychiatry, Toronto Hospital, Ontario.
Summary
Stalking affects up to 1 in 20 women, often by male offenders following relationship breakdowns. Victims suffer significant mental health issues, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Victimology
Background:
- Stalking is a complex issue with significant public health implications.
- Understanding offender motivations and victim impacts is crucial for effective intervention.
Observation:
- Literature searches of psychiatric and legal journals, alongside victim organization publications, informed this review.
- Epidemiological data indicates up to 1 in 20 women experience stalking in their lifetime.
Findings:
- Stalking behaviors encompass surveillance to violent acts, frequently stemming from failed intimate relationships.
- Offenders may have psychiatric diagnoses like erotomania; victims commonly experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Implications:
- Stalking is a serious offense with severe, often underestimated, mental health consequences for victims.
- This review highlights the need for greater societal understanding and support for stalking victims.