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Cyberstalking Includes the use of digital technology Social Mediadigital tracking devices, digital messages, emails, spyware, surveillance cameras, or keyloggers – track, follow, threaten or harass an individual, family, group, or community (Marcum & Higgins, 2021). Cyberstalking scenarios can range from people harassing their previous spouses after separation to racist or homophobic Bullying Deepfake (in schools and other organizational environments, to fall into the threat of forcing money by people who have nude images and other embarrassing information)ai– Generated video or photo) surveillance by people planning to target political candidates, recreational computer hacking (“for fun”), steal from someone’s home or workplace. People affected by cyberstalking may or may not know who will start it (Walsh et al., 2024). With the rapid development of digital technology and surveillance in recent years, it is becoming increasingly important for mental health professionals (MHPs) to recognize how clients can provide support and how they can be affected by cyberstalking.
identification
One of the first roles of MHP is to help identify instances where clients may be affected by cyberstalking. Some clients may not be aware of the risk of cyberstalking, for example when they receive a phishing email or click on a malicious website. Others may know that they are cyberstalked, but they feel that they are too embarrassed or afraid to reveal their experiences. People who commit cyberstalking use threats such as “You’ll erase your hard drive as soon as you tell someone” or “Your child is not safe.”
MHPs can enhance opportunities for cyberstalking disclosure by screening such issues during the intake and assessment process. They may also provide awareness education By obtaining information about cyberstalking on our website, office bulletin boards, or social media. Knowing that some people may find it uncomfortable to discuss cyberstalking, MHPs can demonstrate that they are safe and reliable people to share such information. “If that’s okay with you, I’d like to ask if you’ve been online, online, or have experienced bullying face to face… I know that some people find it difficult to discuss such issues… If you’ve experienced any of these issues, I’m here to provide you with the support and resources to determine the best way to respond.”
Support and Psycho Education: Emotional and Legal
Compassionate and considerate listening is often the most important support that MHP can offer. They may be the first to share their concerns about cyberstalking. MHP may be tailored to emotional concerns such as feardespair, or anger. MHP can also be screened suicide In particular, ideas from vulnerable groups, such as young teens who are unable to tell their parents that their parents are being forced by their peers or adults.
MHP may also help clients to discuss options considered and other options considered. In some cases, there may be technical fixes, such as enhanced computer protection against phishing, tracing, and other forms of attack. If cyberbullying occurs in the context of a school or other organization, the organization may have the resources and processes to support its clients. In some circumstances, legal action may be beneficial. CyberStalking Laws vary by state (ND, CyberStalking Research Center), so you may need to obtain legal advice. Clients may be able to secure restraining orders except for contact from persons who are cyberstalking. Alternatively, they may report on criminal charges or launch a civil lawsuit (Barsky, 2024). There are a variety of organizations and websites that can provide assistance in how you respond to cyberstalking. There is no perfect response for all sizes. Those who initially decide not to take action may need a period of time to support the MHP before they can begin any type of action to protect themselves from further cyberstalking (e.g. stopbullying.gov, nd).
Conclusion
When clients are cyberstalked, MHP plays an invaluable role in providing safe spaces, emotional support, mental education, and connections with legal and other services. Simply being “there” can make a huge difference in the safety and happiness of our clients.
