Partner Stalking: How Women Respond, Cope, and Survive

• NCJ Number: 218942
• Author(s): T. K. Logan Ph.D.; Jennifer Cole MSW; Lisa Shannon MSW; Robert Walker MSW
• Date Published: 2006
• Length: 366 pages
• Sale Source: Springer Publishing Co
• Publication Format: Book (Hardbound)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In this book, female victims of partner stalking share their personal stories of how the stalking affected them and the ways they coped with it; and the authors review the latest stalking research, concluding with a discussion of implications for practice and future research.

Abstract

The women's stories confirmed two characteristics of stalking frequently mentioned in the literature: a pattern of repeated abusive and harassing behavior that induces fear of harm in the victim. The women's stalking experience also had a feature not typically addressed in stalking definitions or research, i.e., the pervasiveness of the partner's stalking behavior when the partners lived together as well as after they separated. The women attributed a variety of physical and mental health problems directly or indirectly to their victimization. These included anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, declining self-esteem, self-blame, self-doubt, physical pain, and substance abuse. Associated problems included loss of employment, increased concerns and burdens related to their children, strained relationships with friends and family members, and increased social isolation. The coping strategies used by the women varied. Turning to personal, informal social supports was critical for many of the women; and the use of formal, professional resources was an important resource for some. The coping resources were most beneficial when friends, family members, or professional counselors joined with the women in devising solutions for the stalking and its consequences. Contacting the justice system yielded mixed results as a coping resource. If it acted to provide protection, the women benefited; however, if it failed to protect them, it became an added stressor. Approximately one-fourth of the women said they would probably not call the police for help again in attempting to deal with stalking. Women's recommendations for helpful resources and responses to stalking are presented. 20 tables, 2 figures, 288 references, and appended study methods and ethical considerations