What is Grooming?
To groom something is to get it ready for a specific objective. 1 In terms of Internet safety, online predators are said to groom children, increasing their access to the victim but decreased the likelihood they'll be discovered. 2 Anna C. Salter, a psychologist, said that "emotional seduction is the most effective way to manipulate children." 3
How Can I Keep My Child Safe?
- Talk to your child. The more they know, the less likely a predator can distort the truth. Let them know they can trust you and talk to you about anything.
- Create a good relationship with your child. Predators will often try to find a void in the child's life and fill it, thereby increasing the child's attachment.
- Be extremely cautious about letting your child meet online friends in real life.