How to Spot a Child Predator

It is undeniably tough to keep kids safe in the modern world. Dangers lurk readily online, out in public, and even at home. It is, therefore, important for loving adults to understand how to spot child predators – in cyberspace, in schools and daycares, in medical, sports, and religious settings, and even within one’s own family – in order to protect children more effectively.

If you have concerns that your child may be coming into contact with a potential predator, tell us about your family’s situation today by calling 888-535-3686 or by contacting the LLF Law Firm online. It can be challenging to voice these thoughts out loud, but your child’s safety is of the utmost importance, and they may need you to make this effort.

Common Warning Signs

Traditional portrayals of child predators in film and television are often loner-types who inspire a deep sense of unease in the audience, as storytellers seek to build tension. Yet, many predators are charismatic and may initially seem very trustworthy. Many attempt to groom their victims by building relationships with them first, in ways that may not initially seem manipulative. This is because the very definition of a child predator is someone who seeks to harm a minor or minors in manipulative or otherwise abusive ways. In order to succeed in this intentional aim, many predators understand that they must first gain significant access to a child, and that usually requires a foundation of trust with that child, and potentially with their family.

This is a challenging reality for parents, as it may not be easy to spot a predator at first. Many parents struggle with guilt that they “should have known” that another adult wanted to cause their child harm. However, the same characteristics that can make an adult a great asset for a child – interest and attention, attempts at bonding, “being great” with kids – can also serve as early warning signs of predatory behavior. Instead of feeling guilty for trusting in what seems like kindness in others, it’s simply necessary to act if things seem to be veering into dangerous territory.

If an adult – whether online, within your family, or out in the broader world – is exhibiting secretive behavior, is trying to isolate your child and/or spend an unusual amount of time alone with them, is touching them inappropriately, is otherwise consistently violating reasonable boundaries, or seems to be sexualizing them, it is time to seek guidance. Additionally, if your child is becoming withdrawn or secretive when it comes to a person of interest, that is a red flag as well. If your child is being exposed to someone harmful as a result of a child custody order, don’t violate the terms of the order without seeking guidance first, as you need the courts to trust your judgment.

Legal Assistance Is Available

There is nothing easy about trying to protect your child from a potential predator. Know that you don’t have to do so alone. The reputable Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm understands how to handle this kind of delicate and urgent safety issue efficiently and effectively.

Don’t walk around any longer, plagued by anxiety that your child is or may soon experience harm at the hands of a predator. Talk to us about your concerns today by calling 888-535-3686 or by contacting us online. We look forward to hearing from you.