Understanding and Responding to Stalking(II)

This study is based on the recognition that the domestic response to stalking remains focused on punishment and fails to sufficiently reflect offenders’ psychosocial characteristics and risks of recidivism. To address this limitation, the study analyzed 241 stalking offenders, including incarcerated individuals as well as those subject to fines or probation.<br/> Most offenders were male and commonly exhibited prior criminal records, alcohol or substance abuse, mental health issues, and unstable employment. Stalking behaviors primarily involved repeated messaging, surveillance, and physical approaches. Among offender typologies, “Rejected Stalkers” showed the highest levels of violence and risk of reoffending.<br/> Risk assessment results identified obsession, threats, and repeated contact as key factors associated with elevated risk. Psychological assessments revealed prominent levels of depression, delusional thinking, and antisocial traits, alongside high stress and low social support.<br/> Based on these findings, the study highlights the need to strengthen police professionalism, establish a risk management system grounded in multi-agency collaboration, and introduce counseling and treatment referrals as part of provisional protective measures, emphasizing an integrated approach to stalking response.