How To Deal with an Exhibitionist Neighbor

If your neighbor is showing more than you want to see, that's a problem, especially if you have kids.You can talk to your landlord or apartment manager about the problem.The law can be involved in most cases.

Step 1: Talk about it in the conversation.

You can bring it up in a conversation if you know the person well.It could get very awkward very quickly, so be prepared.If possible, use humor.If you can't bring it up in a conversation, try a note.You could say "I enjoy running around the house naked as much as the next person, but I do remember to close the blinds, unlike some people we know..."

Step 2: Put a note in the person's mouth.

Drop the person a note if it seems the exhibitionism is happening by mistake.If the person is just walking around getting ready with the blinds down, you would be doing something nice to tell them that people can see in.If you can address the note anonymous, the person will be less embarrassed."I really don't want to make you embarrassed, but I want you to know that people can see in your house while you're getting ready in the morning," you could write.You might want to close the blinds in the future.

Step 3: They have a better nature.

A nice note may not work if the person is exposing themselves.You may be able to get them to stop if you let them know there are kids in the area.Drop another one that's more pointed if they don't stop after your first note."Hello, I am the person who sent the last note about you exposing yourself," you could write.You're doing it deliberately.I want to remind you that there are kids who can see your nudity.Stop for the kids if you don't want to stop for me.I will have to get others involved if you don't.

Step 4: Try to find a local authority.

Before you run off to the police, you should start with someone who has authority over the property.The apartment manager or the homeowner's association may be willing to intervene on your behalf.One of my neighbors seems to have an exhibitionist problem and I would like to discuss it with the association or manager.My kids can see him standing naked at his window for at least 10 minutes at a time.Is there anything you can do?

Step 5: Understand that there are different laws.

There are laws about indecent exposure in the U.S.What counts as a public place varies by state.In some states, an area visible from a public place counts, while in other states it doesn't.In some states, what happens in the home is the owner's business, while in other states it is against the law.You should check the laws in your area if you live in another country.

Step 6: You can call the police.

If you don't know if the person is violating local laws, you can call the police.They can help you determine if your neighbor is violating local laws, and then let you know what they can do to help.

Step 7: You should close your curtains.

If local laws aren't on your side, this approach may be the only option.When you notice exhibitionism happening, close your curtains and look away.If your neighbor gets a thrill out of you looking, they'll be less thrilled if nobody is watching.

Step 8: You should go inside.

You can go inside if you notice the person is exposing themselves.If you are outside with your kids, this step is especially effective.You can prevent them from seeing what's going on next door by taking them out of the area.

Step 9: Building a fence is a good idea.

If you want to prevent your neighbor's house from being seen, you can build a fence tall enough.If your neighbor has a two-story house, it's more difficult, but it can be effective.A high fence around your backyard can keep your kids from seeing what's going on nearby.

Step 10: Talk to your children.

If your kids are exposed to your neighbor, you need to talk to them.It's best not to look at what the person is doing as that will only encourage them more."That person has a problem," you could say.We know that something should be kept private.We can control how we react to what that person is doing.Try not to look at the person.