Online Grooming Risk
My child appears disconnected from friends in person.
I don't have a clear picture of my child's online activities.
My child frequently seems to crave attention.
I believe my child would come to me if someone online made them uneasy.
My child never questions what grown-ups tell her to do.
My child looks up to several trustworthy adults.
My child doesn't believe in herself much.
We talk about staying safe online often at home.
My child tries too hard to make others happy.
Finding meaningful moments with my child is challenging for me.
My child would go to great lengths to maintain friendships.
My child's emotional well-being worries me consistently.
My child lags behind others her age in development or social skills.
My child takes people at their word too easily.
My child has experienced a lot of upheaval in life.
My child acts on impulse, not considering consequences.
My child gives off a lonely vibe.
Our household feels tense and conflicted.
My child has a poor opinion of herself.
My child will bend over backwards to avoid disappointing adults.
20 questions remaining
Things to Know
- Grooming is a planned process that often leads to child sexual abuse. The abuser gains the victim's trust, keeps them away from other people, and tricks them into having sex.
- Grooming can happen in person or online, and it can happen with someone you know (like a coach or family friend) or someone you don't know. Targets are usually kids or teens, but some groomers also go after weak adults.
- Groomers can go after any child, and how easy it is for them to get to them is often a big part of it. But studies show that they often look for kids who seem lonely or neglected, are too trusting or compliant, or have serious mental health problems or low self-esteem.
- Research indicates that children with distant, unstable, or abusive parents may be especially vulnerable, as they may crave positive adult attention and possess a diminished awareness of appropriate adult expectations.
- The best way to protect your child from online grooming is to be their parent. Talk to your child about how to be safe online. Tell them to come to you if someone makes them feel uncomfortable, whether it's in person or online. Also, keep an eye on what they do online.
Now is the time to change
- Think about therapy: If your child is sad, lonely, or not very confident, therapy can help them feel better, which may help keep them from being taken advantage of.
- Start a conversation. Being open and honest can keep you safe. Start talking to your child about what they do online and how to stay safe.
- Watch what your kids do online. Groomers take advantage of this. Help your child set reasonable limits and keep an eye on them.
