Know the Facts

Definition of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA):

Child sexual abuse can be contact, non-contact, or sexual exploitation:

Contact: Forcing, coercing, or persuading a child to engage in any type of sexual act or sexual contact

Non-Contact: Acts such as exhibitionism, exposure to pornography, voyeurism, or communicating in a sexual manner by phone or internet

Commercial sexual exploitation: Where sexual activity involves a child and something of value is given or promised

Let’s Reduce the Risks:

• • Avoid one-on-one contacts: adults meeting with a child one-on-one in isolated areas
  • Avoid private meeting places: meeting in hidden & secluded areas
  • Observe interactions: ensure interactions between adult and child can be observed & unexpectedly interrupted
  • Monitor internet use and texting: know who your child is texting and who is texting your child
  • Learn more about prevention strategies

Learn About the Process of Grooming:

Grooming: is a slow, methodical, intentional process by which adults of any age, male or female with a sexual interest in children, build an emotional connection with a child to gain his/her trust for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

The offender often gains the trust and respect of family members and caregivers as well, giving them unquestioned access to the child.

This “grooming” may be face-to-face or can occur online and is designed to make the child believe that sex with the offender is normal.