5 Stalking Myths Debunked
January 5th, 2012
January is National Stalking Awareness Month. The National Center for Victims of Crime wants everyone to take the time this month to learn a little about stalking and to raise awareness about the dangerous issue.Do you know the truth about stalking? We’re debunking the myths to make sure that when it comes to stalking, you can know it, name it and stop it.
- Myth: Stalkers are strangers whom the victim has never met. Fact: 3 in 4 stalking victims are stalked by someone they know.
- Myth: Stalking victims are older adults or small children. Fact: People between the age of 18 and 24 experience the highest rate of stalking.
- Myth: Stalking is limited following someone in person. Fact: 1 in 4 victims report being stalked through some form of technology (including e-mail and instant messaging), while 10% of victims report to being monitored through global positioning systems (GPS), video or digital cameras, and or listening devices.
- Myth: Stalking victims are not protected by the law. Fact: Stalking is a crime under the laws of 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories and the Federal government.
- Myth: Stalking isn’t a big deal. Fact: Stalking may cause anxiety, insomnia and severe depression. Stalking can lead to significant missed time at work. 1 in 7 stalking victims move as a result of their victimization. In extreme cases, stalking may result in homicide.
Check out this video from the National Center For Victims Of Crime on Stalking:
Did any of these facts surprise you? If you or someone you know is a victim of stalking, you aren’t alone. Check out these resources from the National Center for Victims of Crime or call, chat or text us here at loveisrespect.org.
i just want to say that this website is good for teens because of whats adults use to do when they where teens but they can learn a lot from this site to have a good and better relationships with there partners and not be hurt or pressured into what they dont want to do.