Safety for Stalking Victims

About the Book

Stalking is a serious crime that disproportionately affects and endangers women. The National Institute of Justice says one in every 12 women and one in every 20 men will be stalked in their lifetimes.

Some stalkers make phone calls, send messages, or deliver "gifts." Some follow their victims home, vandalize property, make threats, or kill pets. Some stalkers even attempt rape, kidnapping, or murder. And some succeed. Being the target of an obsessed person is a frightening experience. But it isn't necessary to live in fear. Learning how to live safely is the key.

Topics include:
Who stalks, who is stalked, and why
Evaluating the seriousness of the situation
Replacing terror with sensible precautions Restraining orders—good or bad?
Disappearing—why, when and how
Protecting your children
Self-defense—what works, what doesn’t Safety on a budget
Maintaining your privacy
Strategies that don't work
Helpful web sites and organizations

Using scenarios based on real stalking cases, this book overflows with detailed, practical strategies to put you in control of your situation, and let you break the cycle of terror.

Mistakes by the legal system, employers, or even family members can make the situation worse. If you work with stalking victims, or are concerned about one, you need this information, too.

About the Author

Lyn Bates is a founder of the non-profit AWARE, an organization devoted to teaching women to protect themselves from stalking and lethal assault. An award-winning expert on anti-stalking defensive strategies, she has helped thousands of people to avoid potential dangers and, when necessary, protect themselves with defensive weapons from pepper spray to firearms.