LAUSR

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the validity of student samples for victimization research. Research has suggested that college students are at a higher risk for stalking, yet no study has directly compared experiences of college students and the general public. Methods Using data from the 2006 stalking supplement to the National Crime Victimization Survey, we directly compare stalking experiences among respondents enrolled in an institute of higher education ( n  = 4,266) and those within the general public ( n  = 60,330). Additionally, we examined differential experiences among college and non-college stalking victims in relation to stalking acknowledgement, tech-facilitated stalking, and the victims' decision to contact the police. Results Analyses found that college students were at a greater risk for stalking victimization. Additionally, college students were more likely to be stalked through the use of technology and identify their experience as ‘stalking.’ When the sample was limited to stalking victims between the ages of 18–24, however, no significant differences were found except for contacting the police. Attending college, however, does not increase one's risk for stalking, as the risk is mainly driven by individual differences versus student status. Conclusions There is some evidence supporting the continued use of student samples for victimization research, yet attention to measurement and sampling are paramount.