University of Chester podcast explores the psychology of stalking

Regular host Dr Clea Wright is joined by Dr Janine Carroll and Dr Connor Pell for the latest instalment of the Psychology Of... podcast - available in both audio and video formats.

In the 30-minute episode, the trio examine what stalking and cyberstalking is, stalking behaviours, the psychological characteristics of offenders, the extent of offences nationally, who may be targeted, and the impact on victims. The episode also shares advice on recognising the signs and staying safe.

They outline misconceptions such as stalking being perpetrated mainly by strangers, when around two thirds of stalkers are known to the victim. Another misconception discussed is around the seriousness of stalking, which can be minimised or portrayed instead as romantic, including on the cinema screen.

Highlighting ways to help keep safe in the online world, they share precautions including checking privacy settings, and controlling what is shared as well as who with. They add that anyone affected by stalking is advised to keep records, tell someone they trust, seek support and specialist guidance, and in an emergency call the police. Meanwhile as a society, they look at how social media companies need to be held to account to take action when content is identified, and how continued education and awareness can make a difference.

Clea said: “Stalking and cyberstalking can have serious and lasting consequences for victims through, as defined, a pattern of repeated, unwanted, fixated, and obsessive behaviour which is intrusive and may also cause fear of violence, serious alarm or distress.

“In this episode, we explore what stalking and cyberstalking look like in practice, the national and global picture, and psychological factors that can drive these behaviours - ranging from unwanted calling, letters, texts and emails, spamming and trolling to hanging around or entering a victim’s home or workplace, and following or tracking movements.

“We also discuss steps individuals can take to protect themselves, recognise warning signs, and to take if they are victims.

“Thank you to Connor and Janine for all their insights and raising further awareness of this form of harassment.”

To watch and listen to the podcast, please visit the Psychology Of...profile on Spotify.

For further information and advice on stalking, please visit:

• https://www.suzylamplugh.org/stalking-help-and-advice
• https://justiceinnovation.org/project/harm-reduction-unit
• https://alicerugglestrust.org/

Discovered by many for its psychological insights into TV’s The Traitors, the podcast has also focused on subjects such as families while the crime mini-series has also examined the Psychology Of….psychopaths.

For more information on Psychology at the University of Chester, please visit: https://www.chester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/psychology