A British study correlation between online stalking and online gambling

Dr Emma Short, a psychologist at the University of Bedfordshire in England, elicited hundred of responses to an online survey in which women acknowledged using online technology to harass a former boyfriend or ex-partner.

The recent findings revealed women are slow to move on from a failed relationship because technology allows them to pursue their former partners online. Persistent and repeated messages via text and e-mail which are often inappropriate and unsolicited communication through social networks like Facebook afford these women contact to an ex-lover without fear of physical reproach.

Experts link the pattern of pursuing ex-boyfriends on the web or cyber-stalking to the lure of online gambling. The connection between an individual with an addictive personality and the appeal of online gambling is understood and this research suggests women exhibit the same addictive proclivity for online stalking. According to the research, approximately 35% of online victims are male as opposed to 8% of male victims stalked by females off-line.

The debate whether to regulate and legalise the online gambling industry continues in many countries with opponents citing the connection between the ease with which players can assess online gambling sites from home computers to addictive gambling behavior.
The connection between domestic abuse and stalking crimes are recognized by many lawmakers who may want to carefully review the conclusions of this UK study to understand the possible link between online gambling and online stalking.