Stalking

Legal Definition

Probably the best term to define Stalking is unwanted pursuit.  The behaviors that can be called stalking share two common features; they involve actions not wanted by the victim and they threaten or cause fear to the victim.  It can include unwanted communication as letters, gifts, phone calls or e-mails.

Remember, setting firm personal boundaries based on another's erratic or obsessive behavior is not rude.

Marshall University's Code of Conduct and Stalking Policy states that Stalking is engaging in an intentional course of behavior directed at a specific person or persons, which frightens, intimidates, harasses, and which serves no legitimate purpose

No. Both male and females are possible stalkers.  A majority of stalkers hold down jobs, have friends and are usually above average intelligence; yet, there are some common stalker characteristics such as:

Jealous    Narcissitic    Obsessive and Compulsive    Manipulative    Falls instantly in Love    Deceptive    Unable to cope with rejection    Unable to take no as an answer    Needs to be in control    Does not take responsibility for own feelings or action

Documentation:  Keep a log of everything that happens with the date, time and location.  Save everything you recieve from the stalker.  Witnesses for all the above are helpful for prosecution purposes. 

Prevention and Security: Tell the stalker to stop any personal contact, this is done best through a letter written in the presence of a witness or attorney.  Inform family and friends about the stalker and provide a description.  File police reports about each incident.  File a restraining order at the local courthouse.  Secure your home.