Understanding Adolescent Stalking: Challenging Adult Bias Through a Developmental Lens

Abstract

This chapter explores the research in relation to adolescent stalking, the impact of bias and ways in which this could be reduced. Adult definitions, typologies and measurements of stalking behaviour are considered in terms of their applicability to adolescents and how this may skew findings in the research. The chapter explores notions of intent, victim fear and frequency of behaviour through an adolescent developmental lens. It concludes that mislabelling adolescents as engaging in ‘stalking’ behaviour could pose serious implications in terms of their self-concept and developmental pathway. Recommendations for how professionals work with adolescents at risk of stalking behaviour are made alongside suggestions for future research.