NCJ Number
207871
Journal
Crime and Justice International Volume: 20 Issue: 83 Dated: November/December 2004 Pages: 31-35
Date Published
November 2004
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the principle behind retroactive identification, where previous hidden stalking behaviors are identified and used to provide an explanation for delays in reporting stalking episodes.
Abstract
Retroactive identification identifies early stalking behaviors previously dismissed by the victims as harmless gestures and re-identifies them as behaviors composing of a continuous stalking episode once the victim realizes he/she is being stalked. A crucial reason for examining retroactive identification is to rationalize delays in reporting stalking incidents. The reporting delay stigma may cause biases against the victim and ultimately inhibit the process of obtaining a restraining order or court conviction. The principle of retroactive identification can assist in providing a better understanding of stalking and assist in articulating delays in reporting of stalking episodes and the varying durations reported for stalking episodes in existing research. 30 Endnotes