College and University Blog
Stalking - When Attention Goes To Far
Allegations of stalking are common on college campuses, according to psychologists and police. A study published in 2000 (the latest information available) found that 13% of college women had been stalked. Stalking is generally defined as a repeated pattern of behavior or conduct that causes a reasonable person to feel fear. Unwanted contact can include:
- following or surveillance
- inappropriate approaches and confrontations
- appearing at a place of work or residence
- unwanted phone calls, letters, text messages, or e-mail
- threats to victim’s family and friends
- unwanted or threatening gifts
- damage to property
- physical assault
- sexual assault
Stalking affects people of all identities and can occur within any community. Stalking is especially conducive to a college campus because of the environment. People