Escalation of Stalking in Intimate Partner Violence: Risks, Impacts, and Prevention Strategies
In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings from 16 empirical studies published between 1999 and 2025, all of which aimed to study the escalation of stalking within intimate partner violence (IPV) and its associated risks, impacts, and prevention strategies. I focused on identifying the behavioral and psychological factors that contribute to intense stalking, as well as its relationship with coercive control and potential to progress into sexual assault and homicide. Research has shown that stalking often serves as the predecessor to severe and lethal violence, particularly driven by rejection, jealousy, or power-seeking motives. Victims often experience prolonged anxiety, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and long-term health consequences due to fear and surveillance. The studies I reviewed emphasize the growing role that technology has in stalking behaviors, which adds complications to detection and legal intervention. Prevention strategies highlighted the importance of professional training, early risk assessment, and community response. However, there are limitations due to inconsistent definitions of stalking, underreporting among marginalized groups, and limited longitudinal data that link stalking behaviors to future violence. Future research should prioritize the development of standard risk assessment tools, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and examine the cultural and technological factors that influence stalking dynamics. Understanding that stalking is both a criminal justice and a public health issue is essential for improving prevention, response, and victim protection.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
Goodrich 209
1:30 – 2 PM