January
is National Stalking Awareness Month. Although stalking occurs in young adults,
anyone can be stalked. Men can be stalked for financial reasons, physical
motives, and identity theft. Women can be stalked for curiosity, sexual
reasons, and intimidation. No matter what the reasons are for being stalked, it
leaves harmful effects such as paranoia, living in fear, and not wanting to
leave their home.
The color yellow
is used to bring attention to National Stalking Awareness Month. Stalking can
occur any time of the year, but it is publicized in January. Do not think
stalking is just for celebrities. It can happen to anyone at school, college,
work, and in your home. Be alert when you are outside in public and with your
electronic devices.
If you see
anything suspicious, report it to the authorities. Stalking is considered a
crime and should be stopped. Cyberstalking has become common. A stalker can
take pictures without someone's consent, use their personal information, and
continue to follow someone for stalking purposes. Also, a stalker can make two
or more profiles on social media to follow someone they may know.
Other times a
stalker can watch someone they do not know. Yet, a stalker can also be an
intimate partner or an unwanted admirer. Sometimes stalking becomes a domestic
violence situation. Moreover, stalking leads to financial, physical, and
emotional harm. Stalking occurs in real life and not just in movies.
Stalking is more
than a window peeper. Stalkers observe and learn everything about someone.
Consequently, people are murdered by their stalkers who have a high level of
obsession. There are many motives for a person to become a stalker. Jealousy,
obsession, control, power, and other reasons can make someone a stalker.
Nonetheless,
everyone should be cautious. Use a code word with your family if you do not
feel safe. Change your passwords, block, and be careful who can follow you on
social media. Do not leave your personal belongings when you are at a public
event. Wear a yellow T-shirt, a yellow bracelet, or something yellow to bring
awareness.
Watch your
surroundings and walk with someone during hikes or on the streets. Look for
multiple profiles on your social media accounts. Make sure you feel safe at all
times. Check your devices for any questionable activities. Here are websites
about National Stalking Awareness Month.
Stalking Awareness Month:
https://www.joinonelove.org/learn/stalking_awareness_month/
Be Aware-It is National Stalking Awareness Month:
https://avda.org/blog/be-aware-its-national-stalking-awareness-month/
Intimate Partner Violence-Stalking:
https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/stalking/fastfact.html
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