Stalking: a comparison of classification schemas
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Authors
Fahy, Susan
Issue Date
2002
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Forensic sciences
Alternative Title
Abstract
The classification methods for stalking categorization are constantly evolving. The schemas began with a basic categorization based upon delusions and prior Relationships between stalkers and their victims. Research has expanded the stalking classifications to include behavioral motivation as part of the constructs. The object of the obsessions, the stalking victim and his or her perspectives, are not factored into the classification schemes other than as how they are harassed and the type of relationship that exists with the stalker. This study was an attempt to compare the way a stalker is classified by clinicians and researchers and the way the victim might classify the stalker based upon his or her perspective. The results of this study show that how dangerous the victim feels the stalker is or how frightened the victim is of the stalker and his/her behavior is important and should become part of the criteria. How the victim perceives the stalker, whether as an annoyance or as a threat should be a consideration when classifying the stalker and his/her behavior.