Abstract
Harassing and abusive behaviours are transcending into online spaces with the advancement of technology. Digital communications as well as tracking technologies are being used to pursue and stalk victims; methods and behaviours commonly referred to as ‘cyberstalking’. The following chapter delineates the definition of cyberstalking, assessing the contrasting views on the overlap with terrestrial stalking as well as the issues in establishing prevalence. We also present the technology-based, behaviour-based, and motive-based typologies of cyberstalking. The limited literature on perpetrators is reviewed highlighting the malevolent characteristics, childhood experiences, online behaviour, mental health, and gender differences related to cyberstalking perpetration. Finally, the extensive emotional, psychological, physical, and social impact on victims is assessed along with the help-seeking and coping methods utilised.
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Harewell, J.L., Pina, A., Storey, J.E. (2021). Cyberstalking: Prevalence, Characteristics, and Impact. In: Powell, A., Flynn, A., Sugiura, L. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of Gendered Violence and Technology. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-83734-1_11
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