Definitions and Facts

What is Online Grooming?

We know, it's a huge definition to take in and one that does require a lot of unpacking but that's what we’re here to do. Since online grooming is a process, there are 4 main stages that we like to highlight.

DEFINE IT.

Online grooming is a term used broadly to describe the tactics abusers deploy through the internet to sexually exploit children.

P.S.: It can happen quickly or over time, but at its core it’s a process of taking advantage of trust to shift expectations of what safe behavior is and leveraging fear and shame to keep a victim silent.

Social media and group chats are a really exciting and fun way to connect with people. Now on the internet we can make friends and find relationships at the click of a button. However, you should always be mindful about who you are talking to, and should try to watch out for any red flags.

Maddie 20

The Initial Contact

Whether it’s through a gaming app or those sneaky DMs, every conversation starts somewhere. But, what happens after that initial contact? Do you stay and talk? Do you move to another platform?

TIP: Be sure to take it slow and move at the pace you feel comfortable with.

Boundaries

We hear about them all the time, we may be figuring out what they are and how to set ones that feel right, but how and when do we actually put them into action? Do we let things slide because someone is cute, or do we stand firm and stand our ground in what we want?

TIP: Remember you can share as much or as little as you would like to with the person you’re speaking with.

The Big Ask

When you feel and know that line has been crossed, what do you do? Is it better to just block or report? Keep it to yourself or share with someone else? Handle it on your own or talk about it with someone you trust?

TIP: Remember you are in control. Don’t feel obligated to share any pictures of content that you do not feel comfortable with and remember to think how this could affect you moving forward.

The Exit Strategy

These lines are being crossed all the time. We are not here to judge and hope you aren’t either. So what happens when you realize you may have been groomed and are in a tough situation? Or when someone is threatening you? Or if your nude is leaked or shared? What are the next “right steps?”