Preventing Sexual Exploitation Amongst Youth

This article is courtesy of MPC intern, Bianca Jackson.

Preventing Sexual Exploitation: Protecting Youth from Predators

Recent and very important attention surrounding the Epstein files has highlighted the need for stronger awareness, prevention, and protective measures set in place for the youth. While high-profile cases such as this one typically involve wealth and power, sexual exploitation can unfortunately occur within any community. Prevention relies on education, vigilance, and early intervention from families, schools, and other institutions.

Understanding How Predators Operate

Research from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has shown that predators rarely begin with apparent abuse. Typically, they use a process called “grooming”. This is the gradual building of trust with a minor. This might be through attention, gifts, emotional support, or other opportunities before engaging in inappropriate behavior. According to the