Stalking
Types of Stalking
As a general rule, stalking behavior falls into three broad categories, which may overlap:
Simple Obsessional
Simple Obsessional stalkers have a prior relationship with the victim who may have been the stalker's acquaintance, neighbor, friend, co-worker, customer, significant other, or sexual partner. This form of stalking usually begins after the stalker perceives that s/he has been wronged by the victim or the relationship has dwindled, and is characterized by the victim either trying to mend the relationship or seek some form of retribution.
Erotomania/Love Obsessional
Stalkers suffering from erotomania have the false but persistent belief that they are loved by another. Usually the victim is of higher status and may not be acquainted with the stalker. The stalker in this situation may idealize a spiritual or emotional, rather than sexual, relationship with the victim. The stalker may make efforts to contact the victim, but delusions from erotomania are occasionally kept secret.
Vengeful
Vengeful stalkers, who may also fall under the category of simple obsessional stalkers, seek revenge for some real or perceived harm done by the victim. Often, vengeful stalkers are angry because the victim has developed a relationship with another person or has taken action to limit the stalker's threatening behavior.
