Stalking:
- is repeated and unwanted contact that makes you feel afraid or harassed.
- is serious, often violent, and can escalate over time.
- is common. About 1 in 6 women and 1 in 17 men have experienced stalking in their lifetime.
- is pervasive. 81% of women who were stalked by a current or former husband or cohabitating partner were physically assaulted by that partner; 31% of women were sexually assaulted.
- can impact a person's mental well-being. Research shows 83% of stalking victims experience significant levels of anxiety, 75% have trouble sleeping, and 48% lost their appetite. A quarter of stalking victims say they have attempted suicide or thought about suicide.
- is a crime in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
- is a crime that happens across all ages and genders, though people aged 18 to 24 have the highest rate of stalking victimization.
- is a crime with financial repercussions. 1 in 8 stalking victims has reported losing work because of the stalking. More than half of these victims reported losing five or more workdays.
- starts early. Nearly 54% of female victims and 41% of male victims experienced stalking before the age of 25.
Stalking happens in many types of relationships:
- A current or former romantic partner
- A friend
- A stranger
- A family member
- A community member
- A boss or coworker
Stalking can look like:
- calling, texting, social media messages, or leaving voicemails even after you’ve asked them to stop.
- constantly checking in on you at home, work, or school.
- vandalizing your car or other property.
- controlling your phone, internet or social media.
- showing up where you are, even when you haven’t shared your location with them.
- asking friends, family or co-workers for information about you.
Prevention is possible.
Everyone can work together to know, name, and stop stalking.
- Help educate others to define and recognize stalking behaviors.
- Engage men and boys as allies in prevention efforts.
- Create and support safe environments within relationships, schools, and communities through programs and policies that promote healthy relationships.
Have questions or need help?
- Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline 703-360-7273
- Domestic Violence Action Center 703-246-4573
- Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Main Office 703-324-5730
- If the threat is immediate, call 911.
