Gender-based violence online: cyberstalking overview in Lithuania
ENPrevious studies reveal that women, compared to men, are more likely to become victims of various forms of stalking both through traditional persecution and online (Kaur et al., 2021; Smith et al., 2017). Cyberstalking is a specific phenomenon whose emergence is associated with the rapid growth of digital technologies and the widespread use of social media. While there is still much debate on whether cyberstalking is a continuation of stalking in a digital space or a distinct type of harassment, the prevalence of this phenomenon remains understudied in Lithuania. In this chapter, the authors discuss the concept of cyberstalking and the need for more effective response options in order to eliminate cyberstalking or minimise its negative impact on victims. Using the results of a survey conducted on a female sample of stalking victims (N=168), the authors examine the prevalence and the specific characteristics of cyberstalking cases recorded in Lithuania. Through deeper analysis of these cases, one can identify which women might be at a higher risk of cyberstalking victimisation and take the first steps towards preventing this phenomenon. [Publisher annotation]
