Stalking Behavior: A Case Study

Based on the scenario, I think the type of stalker that my friend’s ex-boyfriend’s actions characterize is a relationship or simple obsessional stalker. According to the course text, the perpetrator and victim typically has had a previous relationship that could include friendship, marriage, or even a coworker (Gosselin, 2014). In my opinion, I think that stalking is a serious matter that should not be taken lightly. Therefore, I think that she should contact law enforcement immediately before things take a turn for the worst. According to the course text, Gosselin (2014), “simple obsession is likely to result in death of an individual (pg. 298).” I think that with her life being at risk and the fact that he is continuously following and calling her that legal actions needs to take place in order to protect her.
In addition, the actions used to satisfy the element of threat required for stalking is a distinctive form of the criminal activity, because it is a pattern that is proposed to cause harm or install fear in an individual (Gosselin, 2014). The common behaviors of stalkers includes: following, harassment, and Threats. First, following the victim is a common stalking behavior, in which stalkers stand outside victims home. Secondly, harassment is another common behavior exhibited by stalkers. This is a knowing and malicious pattern of behavior or sequence of acts over a course of time towards a specific individual (Gosselin, 2014). Lastly, threating an individual in which it causes fear or serious harm is another common behavior. For example, making finger as if it were a gun towards someone or delivering a dead animal on someone’s doorstep are considered threats. In conclusion, although these are common elements there are no template for the actions of a stalker (Gosselin,