Responding to Victims of Stalking
Stalking is repeated following or harassment of an individual that is designed to instill a sense of fear or danger.
Stalkers often have an irrational obsession with the victim and try to gain power and omnipotence through control and intimidation.
Stalking behavior includes tailing the victim; harassment via phone, texting, social media, and letters; offering unwanted gifts; and exhibiting unwanted attentiveness.
Stalkers can be male or female, and targets can be of the same or opposite sex.
- Encourage the victimized student to trust his/her instincts.
- Advise the student to contact the Campus Police at (301) 405-3333.
- Advise the student to document unwanted contacts and maintain evidence of harassment.
- Advise the student to take precautions to ensure safety, including a change in routine travel routes and schedules, and making use of campus escorts when possible: (301) 405-3555.
- Refer the student to the Counseling Center for supportive counseling: (301) 314-7651.
- Ignoring or minimizing the situation.
- Suggesting that the victim is responsible for the unwanted attention.
- Taking responsibility for protecting the student.
- Failing to alert the proper authorities.