According to Brook Zitek, DO, a forensic psychiatrist at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, one of the stalker profiles is categorized as "The incompetent." The definition is: "This person is socially backward. He doesn't really understand the social rules involved in dating and romance. He doesn't mean any harm." (I think this falls under some people we might meet on the internet.)
She went on to say that more than ONE MILLION women are stalked each year!! I'm thinking a lot of this came about with the internet - it's easy to log on and "follow" someone around. Much easier than in person - takes less effort.
She also stated, "Many people stalk someone they have only met briefly -- someone they don't really know, or barely know." (Fitting more in with the net now?) "They develop convoluted thoughts about this person. They feel this person is the answer to their dreams," says Moore.
The red flags:
* You immediately start getting several phone calls or emails right after meeting this person. (online or in person)
* The person is clingy, controlling, or upset if you want to spend time with friends and family. (or if you don't answer emails immediately)
Take action:
* Tell everyone you know that this is going on -- your employer, friends, family.
* Gently but firmly tell the person you've decided to move on. Don't get drawn into discussions of why. Just say, "This situation isn't right for me" or "I'm not ready yet" -- whatever you need to say, but say it gently.
This is just another reminder to everyone - you can't be TOO CAREFUL. There is no such thing. This is the internet. Guard your personal information until you feel completely comfortable giving it out. And if there's a little twinge in the back of your mind that tells you not to, then listen to it. Don't be convinced by someone that you're being paranoid by not giving out your last name, phone number, address, or anything else personal. This is NOT paranoia, it's YOUR information and it is completely up to you WHEN OR IF you choose to give it out. It is also their choice to move along if they don't like your decision. :)
And ALWAYS, if you're going to meet someone in person, do it in a PUBLIC place, and make sure several people know exactly where you're going, who you're meeting, and what time to expect you back (and it's not a bad idea to have someone physically with you to "sit in the background" to make sure all is okay).
There is far more powerful & effective protection available than any carnal means. That is having a mind filled will God's word and the discernment of the Holy spirit. Romans 12:2 (KJV)
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Also if a lady just communicates with men who have minds renewed by the word of God - she has zero worries about opening doors for stalkers.
Also ladies would have far less needs for protection if they were filled with the word, because that produces deliverance and healing. It seems that abused women tend to go from one abusive relationship to another. They attract what their minds are filled with. If a woman's mind is filled with positive truths of God's word she will attract good things.
Also Godly men do not like carnally minded women. And sick or evil men do usually not like Spirit filled women.
This is something that I have not even thought about, but it is common sense to be careful. It makes you wonder though just who you are conversing with.
