Same-Gender Stalking, similarities and differences
Same-gender Stalking
Same-gender stalking is not the rarity previously believed to be, though there is little published on these occurrences, or more importantly, their nuances (Mullen, et al., 2009). While historically often referred to as "homosexual erotomania" or "homoerotomania," implying the stalker and or the victim may be homosexual, recent research suggests otherwise. Research suggests both victims and stalkers share more similarities than differences, in their experiences, however, some notable differences do exist.
Differences in Same-Gender Stalking
Men
Pursuits and Intruisions
Women
There is existing research in the literature stating that of the 2% of men who reported stalking, 60% had been pursued by other males. 90% of the men were stalked by other male acquaintances or strangers. The research also found that there was some evidence that homosexual men were at greater risk of being stalked (Mullen, et al., 2009).
Women
Pursuits and Intruisions
Women
Mullen, et al. (2009) found female same-gender stalkers were more prevalent in their study than previously identified. Other demographic variables were comparable.
Pursuits and Intruisions
Pursuits and Intruisions
Pursuits and Intruisions
The duration for same-gender stalkers did not differ, ranging from two months to 20 years. However, same-gender stalkers were significantly less likely to follow and approach their victims compared to opposite-gender stalkers (Mullen, et al., 2009).
Victim-Types
Victim-Types
Pursuits and Intruisions
Mullen, et al. (2009) found that 28% of the same-gender stalkers were professional-relationships, 24% were workplace-contacts, only 14% were ex-intimate, and 7% were strangers. Compared to opposite gender stalkers, those who accounted for intimate relationships made up significantly less of the group.
Stalker-type
Victim-Types
Stalker-type
Resentful stalking was the most commonly seen form among same-gender stalkers (Mullen, et al., 2009). There were fewer rejections, 25%, and in 29% the stalker was categorized as intimacy seeking.
Victims
Victim-Types
Stalker-type
Anecdotal evidence suggests victims face additional barriers when dealing with same-gender stalking, including those associated with the CJS or workplaces taking cases 'seriously.' Additionally, victims may face stigma associated with same-gender stalking having to do with sexuality, or physicality of the nature or size of the stalker (Mullen, et al., 2009).
When are you going to tell your boyfriend that you're in love with me? [....] Why are you doing this to me? I thought you loved me.
Gross, 2012, p. 94