What is Child Grooming?

Trigger warning. This topic is sensitive and contains abuse and violence. I will not put pictures and audio.

Due to some situations that I have been witnessing on Social Media, I decided to make an article about child grooming to let others know how this happens and what to do if this happens to our loved ones.

What is CHILD GROOMING?

Grooming a child may sound innocent and what mother usually does for their children but THIS IS AN ACT OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE.

This is far from being innocent. This is in fact, attacking an innocent child's mind in order to get the trust of the child and allowing to make the abuse appear natural.

Grooming is the process of luring, befriending and building trust and emotional relationship with a younger person (particularly innocent children) in order to

• Manipulate

• Exploit

• Sexually Abuse (rape, molestation)

• Human Trafficking (child pornography)

There are many unsaid cases happening all around the world regarding this issue but many have no idea that it is already happening in their very own household.

What are the Signs of Child Grooming?

According to SOS Magazine, child predators' key action to get a victim is through grooming.

1. Giving special attention to the child.

2. Buying gifts for the child for no reason.

3. Being isolated with the child in situations like babysitting, tutoring, coaching.

4. Offering an ear to listen to the child when they need to talk while being sympathetic and understanding.

5. Offering to buy alcohol or drugs for the child.

6. Spending time with the child while they are showering, or undressed.

7. Sexual jokes and talking about sex.

8. Touching the child in the parent’s presence to make the victim believe the abuse is okay. This can be as simple as a hug.

9. The victim doesn’t want to be hugged or touched by the abuser.

10. The predator shares common interests with the child that you know they don’t have any interest in.

Be aware of your children/siblings whereabouts at all times. Ask about their opinion personally about who they spend most of their times with. Stay alert if they act strange around other people. JUST BE THERE FOR THEM. Have deep conversations. Don't be afraid to ask because we'll never know unless we ask. Listen to your child, this is the most important.

CHILD GROOMING is a VIOLATION against the LAW. It should be reported! Don't hesitate to report predators that you know and let the JUSTICE prevail.

I really wanted to write an article about this as soon as I read an issue about someone in Showbiz to let everyone know about this crime. Hope this helps.