NCJ Number
193735
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 47 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2002 Pages: 152-158
Date Published
2002
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this study was to empirically develop a typology of male stalkers based on the female victims’ perceptions of the stalkers’ behavior and the motivation measured along two dimensions: love/hostility and control/freedom. In addition secure/insecure attachment style was measured, as was the type of relationship between partners (intimate to casual).
Abstract
This investigation explored three hypotheses in regard to stalkers: that stalkers would tend to have higher scores on the control/hostility and jealousy scales compared to participants in a control group; that stalkers would tend to have an insecure style of attachment compared to controls; and that the majority of stalking incidents would occur after the breakup of a previously intimate relationship. Previous research grouped stalkers based on theoretical models rather than trying to empirically examine stalking along with other factors such as motivation, type of relationship, and attachment style in determining a typology of stalkers. Female college students who had experienced stalking behaviors responded to questions regarding their perceptions of those behaviors. A total of 396 females at West Virginia University were surveyed, ranging from in age from 17 to 39. First, victim perceptions were factor analyzed. Then cluster analysis grouped those factors to produce a four-cluster typology of stalkers. Cluster 1 (Harmless) appeared to reflect a more casual, less jealous pattern of behavior. Cluster 2 (Low Threat) appeared the least likely to become physically violent or threatening, or engage in illegal behaviors. Cluster 3 (Violent Criminal) appeared to be the most likely to engage in physically threatening and illegal behaviors. Cluster 4 (High Threat) was characterized by a more serious type of relationship in which the stalker may be more restrictive of his partner at the first meeting. In regard to the three hypotheses, the investigators suppositions were confirmed. Stalkers scored higher on the control/hostility and jealousy scales compared to the control group; stalkers were more likely to have partners with an insecure attachment compared to the control group; and stalking behaviors were more prevalent after the termination of a serious relationship compared to casual relationships. 7 Tables, 20 references