NCJ Number
223405
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 53 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2008 Pages: 742-751
Date Published
May 2008
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Based on discriminant analysis of 103 Canadian cases of "simple obsessional" stalking, this study identified those factors that distinguished the physically violent stalker from the nonviolent stalker.
Abstract
The study identified five factors that distinguished the physically violent stalker from the nonviolent stalker. First, the physically violent stalker is more likely to have a stronger previous emotional attachment to the victim. Second, the violent stalker is more highly fixated on or obsessed with the victim, often resulting in more contacts with the victim and more effort to confront the victim. Third, the violent stalker has a higher degree of perceived negative affect/emotion toward the victim, clearly indicating anger, jealousy, and/or hatred toward the victim. Fourth, the violent stalker is more likely to make verbal threats toward the victim. Fifth, the violent stalker is more likely to have a history of battering/domestic abuse toward the victim. The success of these various factors in classifying stalkers as violent or nonviolent was 81 percent. The findings are consistent with earlier research by the author as well as other studies on this subject. These variables should be the focus of police officers in deciding the level of risk posed by stalkers to their victims. Consistent with previous research by the author, the general profile of the "simple obsessional" stalker is that of a person with considerable difficulty in controlling his/her emotions and taking responsibility for his/her actions. These characteristics can lead to erratic and illegal behaviors, including the use of threatening statements, previous violent behavior, the necessity for a court order to stop the stalking behavior, and the inability of the stalker to comply with such an order. 9 tables and 76 references