Moving From Suspicion to Recognition
Abuse prevention is not about panic, it is about awareness and empowerment. Grooming is a gradual multi-step process designed to erode limits slowly. Use this framework to SPOT subtle shifts early, hold clear standards, and protect youth across home, school, and community activities.
The 6 Stages
A grooming process gives offenders time to carefully select targets, earning rights and know what to do to harm them.
Stage 01
Target Selection
Offenders identify vulnerable children — those with less parental oversight, low self-esteem, or a need for attention and affection. Understanding who is targeted helps adults create protective environments.
Myth vs Reality
Outdated assumptions keep communities from confronting myths about how grooming happens — and the realities that keep young people safe.
Myth
Only children can be groomed.
Truth
Adults can be groomed too. Grooming tactics can be used against people of any age to build non-subject success.
Myth
Grooming is always sexual.
Truth
Grooming is a process, not a single type of abuse. It uses manipulation, pressure, and barriers for sexual, emotional, or financial exploitation.
Myth
Grooming only happens in person.
Truth
Grooming can happen online, offline, or both. Social media, gaming, and messaging apps are often used to form grooming relationships.
Myth
People know if they're being groomed.
Truth
Grooming is designed to be difficult to recognize while it is happening. Trust and boundaries may be changing gradually.
Recognizing the stages is AWARENESS. Responding takes PRACTICE!
Our engaging workshops give adults tools to navigate difficult conversations, uphold clear boundaries, and step in with care before lines are crossed.
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