Stalking

Learn more about stalking:

Defining stalking

Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that involves repeated (two or more occasions) visual or physical proximity, nonconsensual communication, or verbal, written, or implied threats, or a combination thereof, that would cause a reasonable person fear.
Stalking behaviors include defaming character, use of Internet and e-mail (cyberstalking) to harass and spread rumors about an individual, damaging or threatening to damage one’s property and following or laying in wait for an individual.
Stalking is a crime under law in the state of Illinois.

13% of college women were stalked during one 6-9 month period.
80% of campus stalking victims knew their stalkers.
3 in 10 college women reported being injured emotionally or psychologically from being stalked.

Source: Fisher, Cullen and Turner. (2000). “The Sexual Victimization of College Women,” NIJ/BJS.

For more information: Visit the Stalking Resource Center, National Center for Victims of Crime.

What can I do if I think I’m being stalked?

Inform Northwestern University Police Department or your nearest police department.
Develop a safety plan to reduce the risk of harm.
Let someone know (i.e., friends, family, Women’s Center, your CA, your Dean, the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, the Sexual Harassment Prevention Office or talk to a CARE advocate)
Keep a log of all stalking behaviors including e-mails, text and phone messages. Also, keep any letters or gifts you have received. The log and any other items can be used for evidence.
Report online harassment to NUIT. See the NUIT Online Harassment Policy. The non-profit organization Without My Consent also maintains resources for victims of online harassment.
Apply for a Stalking No Contact Order.
Rely on trusted people including friends and family for support.
Seek counseling for support: the Women’s Center and CAPS offer counseling.