Title: 6 Subtle Ways Child Predators ‘Groom’ Their Victims | The Mighty
Headings: 6 Subtle Ways Child Predators 'Groom' Their Victims
6 Subtle Ways Child Predators 'Groom' Their Victims
Editor's Note
What is “grooming” in child sexual abuse?
Classic Grooming Behaviors
1. Singling Out the Child as “Special”
2. Befriending Family Members of the Child
3. Isolating the Child
4. Gradually Exposing the Child to Sexual Content
5. Pushing Physical Boundaries
6. Encouraging Secrecy
How to Protect Your Child From Sexual Predators
1. Know the Signs of Grooming and Child Abuse
2. Talk to Your Child About Safety
3. Trust Your Gut
4. Report It
Resources
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Content: Pushing Physical Boundaries
Reed told The Mighty a perpetrator will often start to push physical boundaries, starting with innocent touching that eventually leads to inappropriate sexual contact. “They may push physical boundaries, you know, want to give hugs, or let the kids sit in their lap, or tickle the kid,” she said. The perpetrator might also encourage activities that require undressing like going swimming or shopping. Once the abuser begins to sexualize the relationship, things can become very confusing for the child. A child may struggle with not wanting sexual contact, but finding their body responds to sexual stimulation in a way that “feels good.” They may also be confused by dual feelings of dreading and enjoying special treatment by this important adult in their life. 6. Encouraging Secrecy
Once a sexual relationship has been established, the perpetrator will often use secrecy and blame to guarantee continual participation and silence from the child or adolescent. “ [The perpetrator] may encourage a child to keep secrets from family members,” Reed told The Mighty. “ You know, saying things like, ‘This will just be our little secret,’ or ‘Let’s just keep it between us.’”