Stalking
Understanding Stalking
Definition:
- Stalking: A pattern of repeated, unwanted attention and contact that causes a person to feel fear or concern for their safety. Stalking behaviors may include following, monitoring, harassing or other actions intended to intimidate or control the target.
Key Statistics:
- 1 in 6 Women and 1 in 17 Men will experience stalking in their lifetime, often from a current or former partner (National Center for Victims of Crime).
- Over 60% of Female Victims and 43% of Male Victims report being stalked by someone they know, making it challenging to recognize and address (CDC).
- College-Aged Individuals are at the highest risk of being stalked, with young adults ages 18–24 reporting the highest rates of stalking incidents (RAINN).
Recognizing Stalking Behavior
Stalking often includes actions that seem benign but create fear or discomfort due to their repetitive nature. These behaviors may include:
- Repeated Unwanted Contact: Excessive calls, messages, emails or social media interactions.
- Following or Monitoring: Appearing at places you frequent, tracking your location or using technology to monitor activities.
- Threatening Behavior: Making verbal threats, showing up uninvited or leaving unwanted gifts.
- Harassment of Family and Friends: Contacting people in your life to gather information or create distress.
Steps to Stay Safe
- Trust Your Instincts: If someone’s behavior makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, take it seriously.
- Document Evidence: Keep records of stalking incidents, including messages, voicemails and photographs.
- Create a Safety Plan: Identify safe places, share your concerns with trusted individuals and plan responses to potential encounters.
- Report and Seek Help: Contact campus security, the RSVP Center or local law enforcement to report stalking and receive guidance.
RSVP Center Support and Resources
Our RSVP Center offers a range of services to support students, faculty and staff affected by stalking. We provide:
- Confidential Counseling: Speak with trained staff in a safe, supportive environment.
- Safety Planning: Personalized strategies to help you navigate your daily life safely.
- Community and Legal Resources: Referrals to protective orders, counseling and local services.
Stalking has no place in our community. If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, please reach out to the RSVP Center at rsvpcenter@lincolnu.edu. You are not alone; we are here to support you every step of the way.
Need Help? Contact the RSVP Center Today!