Definitions of Stalking 

Stalking can be defined as a pattern of repeated and unwanted attention, harassment, contact, or any other course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.

 It is a course of conduct/behaviors that can include:

• Repeated, unwanted, intrusive, and frightening communications from the perpetrator by phone, mail, and/or email
• Repeatedly leaving or sending victim unwanted items, presents, or flowers
• Following or waiting for the victim at home, school, work or recreational places
• Making direct or indirect threats to harm the victim, the victim's children, relatives, friends, or pets  
• Harrassing victim through the Internet
• Posting information or spreading rumors about the victim on the Internet, in a public place, or by word of mouth
• Obtaining personal information about the vicitm by accessing public records, using Internet search services, hiring private investigators, going through the victim's garbage, following the victim, contacting the victim's friends, family, work, or neighbors, etc

There is a difference between cute and romantic behavior and behavior that makes you feel uneasy or uncomfortable. Learn to trust your instincts and if something does not feel right or you feel unsafe, don't downplay it. Take threats seriously and, if you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Possible Warning Signs Include

• Extreme jealousy
• Following
• Threats
• Physical or verbal abuse
• Damage or destruction of your property
• Making friends or family feel scared or uneasy
• Offers of unsolicited help
• Refusing to accept no for an answer
• Switching between rage and love
• Unable to cope with rejection
• Narcissistic
• Falling in love instantly
• Obsessive tendencies

Possible Reactions of the Victim Include

• A sense of loss of control over your life
• Feelings of shame and/or vulnerability
• Depression
• Guilt or humiliation
• Poor concentration
• Nervousness, anxiety, or panic attacks
• Eating problems (loss of appetite, over-eating)
• Isolating yourself from friends or family
• Pessimism about your future
• Flashbacks of stalking incidents
• Constant fear 
• Trouble sleeping
• Frustration and confusion 

Source: Stalking Resource Center, National Center for Victims of Crime