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Previous literature suggests that between 1-11% of female and 1-2% of male active-duty members serving in the military report stalking victimization, whereas, as many as 35% of females and 4-15% of males will report victimization during their lifetime as veterans. However, recent research by Lucas, et al. (2021) found rates significantly higher among veterans, identifying 57% among females and 35% among males. Evidence suggests there are often delays in reporting until after active duty, which can delay treatment or other appropriate interventions. Unfortunately, research on stalking in the military and veteran populations has been limited, little has focused on the psychological or physical effects of stalking (Lucas, et al., 2021). While they suggest possible cultural changes, they encourage the Veterans Health Administration to assess for stalking among other sexual harassment and assault inquiries, given the increased risk to mental health.
Just Supporting our Troops!
Female Victims
Stalking associated with Mental Health
Female Victims
Females: The most prevalent intrusions were unwanted calls, emails, etc. (37.2%).Victims were younger (18-39), non-Hispanic, White, identified as lesbian or bisexual (23.1%), and were more likely to have experienced other sexual assaults in the military.
Female victims were more likely to report the stalking (58.5% v. 34.6). Additionally, more female victims experienced sexual assault compared to male stalking victims (Lucas, et al., 2021).
Male Victims
Stalking associated with Mental Health
Female Victims
Males: The most common were unannounced visitors (23.5%).
Victims were also young, (57.9%), those who ended their careers in more senior positions were more likely to have experienced stalking. They were also more likely to have experienced sexual assault (41.8%).
Stalking associated with Mental Health
Stalking associated with Mental Health
Stalking associated with Mental Health
Female and male veterans: Even after adjusting for confounding variables, stalking was significantly associated with both PTS and depressive symptoms.
Recommendations: Lucas, et al. (2021) suggest active-duty personnel as well as Veterans Health Administration personnel evaluate for stalking victimization risks. This should also include reserve personnel, and guard members. Reporting avenues should be in place, as well as tools for command response.