THE INCIDENCE AND NATURE OF STALKING VICTIMISATION

2In the last decade stalking has emerged as a significant social problem. It occurs when one individual repeatedly attempts to impose on another unwanted contacts and/or communications. Legislators have broadly defined the offence as 2 or more such intrusions that are intended to, or actually, render the recipient fearful. Clinical studies conducted in forensic mental health settings have helped elucidate the motivations and psychopathology of stalkers, as well as the long term impacts of this behaviour on the victim’s psychological, social and interpersonal functioning. At a population level, however, insufficient is known about the prevalence and nature of stalking. This study examines the incidence of stalking behaviours in the community, the association between stalking and other forms of violence and factors which mediate the type and duration of stalking. Methods Survey packages containing a 14-page questionnaire booklet, explanatory letter and reply-paid envelope were posted to a randomly selected sample of 3700 men and women whose names and addresses were obtained from the electoral roll in the Australian State of Victoria. Each respondent completed questions regarding social and educational status and the experience of harassment