Which type of stalker typically believes they have a romantic relationship with their target?

The type of stalker that typically believes they have a romantic relationship with their target is the intimate stalker. This stalker often has a distorted perception of their relationship with the victim, which may stem from past interactions or fantasies about a connection that doesn't exist in reality. They may feel entitled to the victim's affection and believe that their feelings are reciprocated, despite the lack of actual mutual consent or relationship.

Intimate stalkers may act out of an obsession or fixation on the victim, engaging in behaviors that range from benign to dangerously intrusive, all driven by their belief in a romantic relationship. This belief, though misguided, can lead them to rationalize their actions as attempts to maintain or rekindle a nonexistent romance. Understanding this type of stalking is crucial for effective intervention, as their motivations and mindset differ significantly from other types of stalkers.