Abstract
Surviving stalking will be a handy guide for sufferers, assessors, therapists and law officials alike. I certainly found a number of good suggestions from the book in dealing with an unpleasant, persistent individual who is presently making my life difficult.
Although the title emphasizes survival, the book recapitulates all that is currently known about the subject. This is from the author's own impressive studies (in conjunction with P. Mullen and R. Purcell) and from a useful Reading Guide. For the sufferer, Pathe also appends ‘Other resources’ (internet web sites, national organizations) in the UK, US and Australia.
The chapters make easy reading. The paragraphs are clearly headed, case-vignettes are given to illustrate the text and at the end of each chapter is a dot-point summary.
I quite like the candid nature of the text: ‘Finally, never date a person out of pity and certainly do not date someone who threatens suicide if you do not see him.’ (p58) ‘Implementing these strategies is not about giving in but fighting back.’ (p63) ‘Take charge of your environment.’ (p67)
In this respect the book weaves a careful course between the scientific and the popular making it a useful and practical adjunct for victim support. This is important and may be the beginning of the victim ‘taking charge’.
Chapters 10, 11 and 12 deal with the criminal justice systems in the UK, US and in the states of Australia. They deal with stalking behaviour in these jurisdictions and how the legislation deals with these offences. Protective injunctions or restraining orders and anti-stalking legislation are discussed. Very useful practical advice is given when dealing with the police and in engaging a lawyer. The way that some stalkers can continue their behaviour utilizing the judicial process is raised.
The book concludes: ‘It is hoped that this book, through its attention to these important areas, has invested you and your supports with the power to stop the stalking and to make the transition from victim to strategist and ultimately to survivor’. In this respect the author makes sense out of a frightening, bewildering and often dangerous situation, giving a degree of power and authority to the victim to break free.