January Is Stalking Awareness Month

Stalking:
  • is repeated and unwanted contact that makes you feel afraid or harassed.

  • is serious, often violent, and can escalate over time.

  • is common. About 1 in 6 women and 1 in 17 men have experienced stalking in their lifetime. 

  • is pervasive. 81% of women who were stalked by a current or former husband or cohabitating partner were physically assaulted by that partner; 31% of these women were sexually assaulted.

  • is a crime in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

  • is a crime that happens across all ages and genders, though people aged 18 to 24 have the highest rate of stalking victimization.

  • is a crime with financial repercussions. 1 in 8 stalking victims has reported losing work because of the stalking. More than half of these victims reported losing five or more work days.

  • starts early. Nearly 54% of female victims and 41% of male victims experienced stalking before the age of 25. 

Stalking happens in many types of relationships:

  • A current or former romantic partner

  • A friend

  • A stranger

  • A family member

  • A community member

  • A boss or coworker

Stalking can look like:

  • calling, texting, social media messages, or leaving voicemails even after you’ve asked them to stop.

  • constantly checking in on you at home, work, or school.

  • vandalizing your car or other property.

  • controlling your phone, internet or social media.

  • showing up where you are, even when you haven’t shared your location with them.

  • asking friends, family or co-workers for information about you.

Prevention is possible. 

Everyone can work together to know, name, and stop stalking.

  • Help educate others to define and recognize stalking behaviors.

  • Engage men and boys as allies in prevention efforts.

  • Create and support safe environments within relationships, schools, and communities through programs and policies that promote healthy relationships.

Have questions or need help?

  • Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline 703-360-7273

  • Domestic Violence Action Center 703-246-4573 

  • Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Main Office 703-324-5730 

  • If the threat is immediate, call 911.