Safeguarding Children and Youth From Sexual Abuse: Understanding Grooming Practices

Sexual abuse of children and youth, ages 6-17, refers to sexual acts perpetrated by an individual in relative power to the victim. The sexual abuse of young people typically occurs in private and leaves no physical signs, which makes detection very difficult. Moreover, as many as 90% of sexual abuse cases are perpetrated by a person whom the victim knows and trusts. This report reviews characteristics of offenders as well as the tactics they use to groom young people for future abuse. In addition, best practices are discussed, which can aid prevention efforts on behalf of young people.