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Stalking Myths & Facts

Myth: Just ignore it, it'll go away. If you stop reacting to your stalker, it'll stop they'll just get bored of it.
Fact:This is not necessarily the case. It is important to take action to stop the actions of the stalker AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. The sooner action is taken, be it police caution/warning, solicitors letter, arrest, the more chance it has of stopping. The legislation is there for exactly this reason. Research has shown that those stalkers who are allowed to carry on, are less likely to stop easily. It is important to nip it in the bud.

Myth: You should be flattered - I'd keep the presents, etc. People you know may try to make light of the situation and not take it as seriously as they should.
Fact: You don't have to be flattered, you might be terrified. These comments are usually from people who are ignorant about the subject and what it is like to be on the receiving end of a stalker. Try to ignore comments that upset or anger you and gently educate these people if they are members of your circle. You are not alone in your situation. Preserve any presents/objects, letters you are suspicious of, and inform the police. Report ALL incidents.

Myth: I just want to talk...meet me/talk to me, then I'll stop what I'm doing.
Fact: On no account should you agree to meet with your stalker or communicate with them in any way. They are just feeding their obsession by controlling you and may give you false hope that they will stop. It might put you in a dangerous situation from which you can't escape. Please don't do it, don't be manipulated. Report incidents to the police. In addition, if you have already involved the police, it may weaken any prosecution case against your stalker simply because you have co-operated with the stalker.

Myth: If I don't want to involve the police, then nothing can be done.
Fact: You may be eligible to apply for a stalking protective order. For more information about this order and how to apply for one contact the Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (see Find Resources).