They may persuade the child that sexual activities are expected in relationships. They will exploit the emotional connection to convince the child that the conduct is okay and that they must keep it a secret. Once the abuser has built a relationship with the child, the abuser will introduce sexual conduct. They use these personality traits to influence families and communities so they can have access to abuse a child. An abuser may appear charming, helpful, and generous. Sexual predators use grooming behaviors to target and form a relationship with a child to control, exploit, and abuse them. An abuser might be a family friend, teacher, faith leader, priest, boy scout leader, or another person in authority.
5 Boucher LLP: Helping Survivors and Families Heal After Childhood Sexual Abuse What Is the Definition of Sexual Grooming?Īnyone of any age, gender, race, sexual orientation, or religion can be a sexual abuser.
