Impact of Severe Stalking Experienced by Acutely Battered Women: An Examination of Violence, Psychological Symptoms and Strategic Responding

• NCJ Number: 187728
• Journal: Violence and Victims Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: Winter 2000 Pages: 443-458
• Author(s): Mindy B. Mechanic; Mary H. Uhlmansiek; Terri L. Weaver; Patricia A. Resick
• Editor(s): Roland D. Maiuro Ph.D.
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article examined concurrent and subsequent intimate partner abuse, strategic responses, and symptomatic consequences of severe stalking experienced by battered women.

Abstract

Data reported in this article were collected as part of a larger, ongoing study focused on factors that influence recovery from intimate partner violence in a sample of acutely battered women. Comparison data was presented on 65 battered women, 35 who were classified as relentlessly stalked, and 31 who were identified as infrequently stalked. This sample was drawn from a pool of 114 battered women who participated in the larger study. Compared to infrequently stalked battered women, relentlessly stalked battered women reported: (1) more severe concurrent physical violence, sexual assault and emotional abuse; (2) increased post-separation assault and stalking; (3) increased rates of depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; and (4) more extensive use of strategic responses to abuse. The results underscore the scope and magnitude of stalking faced by battered women. In addition, the results have implications for assessment and intervention strategies. References