Stalking
Stalking refers to repeated, threatening behavior that leads to concern or fear about personal safety. This is behavior that happens multiple times. It is also context dependent; stalking behaviors differ case by case. Individual stalking behaviors may not be illegal or against university policy (e.g. texting, waiting for someone outside a classroom), but when these acts are unwanted, there can be an implied threat in the repetition of behavior and tone of contact.
Common Stalking Behaviors
It is important to note that stalking behaviors are repetitive and made to cause fear. Below are some common stalking behaviors. They include:
- Following the person or repeatedly showing up unexpectedly at the person's class, work, favorite coffee shop, etc.
- Sending unwanted gifts, letters, cards or e-mails
- Repeatedly calling or texting
- Monitoring activities such as phone calls, computer usage or schedules
- Using technology to track the person such as hidden cameras, computer viruses, GPS devices, social media or tracking apps
- Repeatedly driving by places where the person spends time
- Causing damage to the person’s home, car or other property
- Making threats to a person or to that person's family, friends or pets
- Gathering information about someone through internet searches, social media or hired investigators or by contacting friends, family, classmates or co-workers
- Sifting through someone's trash or belongings
- Engaging in actions meant to control, track or frighten someone
Stalking is serious and dangerous. Stalking behaviors can escalate over time and may involve physical violence. However, stalking often goes underreported because many stalkers employ activities that may seem to be harmless. For example, stalkers may call or text repeatedly or leave gifts. It is necessary to recognize patterns of behavior that are obsessive, threatening or harmful.
If someone's pattern of behavior frightens you, you are not alone. You can work with a Voices Against Violence Counselor to learn about your rights. VAV Counselors can help you create a safety plan, which is an individualized plan to decrease risk and increase safety. Additionally, if you are uncertain that you are experiencing stalking, a counselor can work with you to help you identify what you are going through.
Stalking is a reportable offense at UT Austin. You can learn more about the different types of reports at this Title IX resource.