The Dark Side of the Mind: True Stories from My Life as a Forensic Psychologist

by Kerry Daynes

a predatory stalker. These are men who follow and collect information about their victim, typically a female and a stranger to them, as an elaborate precursor to a violent or sexual assault. For this stalker type, the sense of excitement and anticipation that comes from covertly watching an unsuspecting victim is as gratifying as the ultimate attack. Far more typical than predatory or other types is the rejected stalker, someone who is either attempting to reconcile with a former intimate partner, or seeking revenge for the rejection they have suffered when the relationship ended or they were rebuffed. Other types include the incompetent suitor who targets strangers or acquaintances, and is driven by a combination of lust and loneliness, going entirely the wrong way about trying to lure their victim into a brief encounter such as a date or a short-term sexual liaison. The intimacy- seeking stalker is fuelled by delusional beliefs that they are already in an intense relationship with the victim. And the resentful stalker blazes with the conviction that they have been mistreated or humiliated by their target, and wants to settle the score. While useful as guideline indicators of behaviour, what drives a stalker’s behaviour is often complex and shifting. He or she won’t necessarily behave within the strict confines of one ‘type’ forever. *