Institute for

Conflict Resolution

Stalking: When The Stalker Leaves Work And Follows You Home.

There is the case of a female manager at an aerospace company who accidentally bumped into a male co-worker. He immediately became infatuated with her and began stalking her. He found out that she likes old movies, so he obtained tickets to an old film and tried to convince her to take them as a gift. When she refused, he pressed the tickets into her hand. To end the encounter, she finally accepted them. Her acceptance was a mistake, because he was encouraged by this act. He began to actively stalk her. She brought charges against him and he was fired. The stalking not only continued but also escalated. If this woman had been trained how to handle stalking, she would never have accepted the tickets and she might have been able to put a stop to his harassment.

Stalking is a very complicated issue. There are three distinct stalker profiles:

1. Erotomanic: A delusional state in which the stalkers believe they are loved by another, typically someone of higher status. This delusion is one of idealized love. The person is convinced that the object, usually of the opposite sex, fervently loves him/her, and would return that love if not for external circumstances.

2. Love Obsessional: There is no prior relationship between the suspect and the victim. "He/she would love me if only given a chance !" A campaign is begun by the stalker to make his existence known to the victim.

3. Simple Obsessional: There is some type of prior knowledge or relationship. Stalking begins:
(a) after the relationship had gone "sour" or
(b) there is a perception by the stalker of mistreatment.

The subject then begins a campaign either to rectify the schism or seeks some form of retribution.
Within each of the above types of stalkers, exist different victim/suspect profiles, motivations and directed patterns of harassment and/or threatening behavior.
The behavior or threats of the stalker are never to be taken lightly. The prognosis is poor and the possibility of vandalism and violence is very real.

A. It is extremely important that sufficient time and resources be made available to the victim.
B. If we are to be successful in managing and intervening in stalking cases, an accurate assessment must be made as to the type of stalking profile involved.

Victim intervention encompasses three main considerations:

1. Education: Time should be spent to help the victim develop a perspective into her/his problem. The victim should be made aware of the many security options available to help ensure her/his safety both at work and at home.

2. Behavior Modifications: Changing of phone numbers, modifying social habits will help. If the stalker knows victim's residence, a change of address may be necessary. In some instances, job relocation is important.

3. Therapeutic: "You did nothing wrong to warrant what is happening to you!" Victim needs psychological support both from the institution and from law enforcement. Considerable anxiety and fear can be reduced in the process. Support groups are also helpful, including assistance in self-defense. The victim needs to develop a better self-image and feel empowered to become more assertive.

Suspect Intervention:

After a comprehensive victim intervention has been established, and there is a good idea as to the nature of the case, the following should be done:

1. Detective contact with stalker.
2. Temporary restraining orders / protective orders.
3. Arrest and detention
4. Mental health diversion
5. Criminal conviction

State laws have changed and more protection is now available to the victim and the threat of imprisonment for the stalker is now a reality.
Legal counsel should be consulted.

drsol@workconflicts.com