The stalking of psychologists by their clients

A number of practicing psychologists have become victims of threats and/or harassment from clients. This preliminary study provides descriptive information for a group of psychologists and their experiences with clients who have stalked them. Results revealed that (a) there is no specific profile for the psychologists who had been stalked; (b) the stalked psychologists subsequently employed significantly more safety measures than those who had not; and (c) the clients who stalked were usually single, likely had mood and/or personality disorder diagnoses, childhood relationship disturbances, and/or recent major stressors. The findings suggest that psychologists who work with clients may benefit from a heightened awareness of the potential danger that clients pose. The implementation of safety measures to deter unwanted client contact is discussed.