What should I do if someone is threatening my child with their photos?
This is sextortion. Do not engage with the perpetrator. Save evidence and seek help immediately. Reassure your child that threats rely on fear and silence, and that support reduces harm.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment includes unwanted sexual comments, jokes, gestures, messages, or images. It’s defined by how the behavior is received, not the intent behind it.
Should my child seek help even if alcohol was involved?
Yes, being drunk does not mean that someone is at fault for sexual violence they experience, and an aggressor being drunk does not absolve them of responsibility. Law enforcement best practice is to prioritize the report of sexual violence and not charge the reporting individual with underage drinking as long as they were not putting […]
Can flirting turn into harassment?
Yes. When behavior continues after discomfort or a request to stop, it becomes harassment. Teach your child that consent must be ongoing and mutual.
Can my child get in trouble for reporting something that happened at a party?
Law enforcement best practice is to prioritize the report of sexual violence and not charge the reporting individual with underage drinking as long as they were not putting others in harm’s way (drunk driving, for example). How family, school, and the community respond will vary depending on values, rules, and policies. Some local jurisdictions have […]
What should my child do if they see something unsafe happening?
If they can safely intervene, they can directly address the situation and ask the target or targets if they are okay. They can also try creating a distraction to break up whatever is happening. If they do not feel safe to intervene, they can tell a trusted adult, an accessible authority figure, or report to […]
How can my child help in a situation without putting themselves in danger?
Sometimes directly speaking up against a situation might not be safe, but an indirect intervention can, like creating a distraction. If they do not feel safe to intervene, they can tell a trusted adult, an accessible authority figure, or report to law enforcement.
How can I support my child if one of their friends experienced harm?
Let your child know that you are there to support them, and if there are ways you can support their friend, offer that as well. Remind your child that supporting someone who has experienced harm can be difficult, and it is okay if they feel upset or overwhelmed. Tell them that they can always talk […]
What should my child say or avoid saying to someone who was hurt?
Some things they can say are: “Thank you for trusting me with this” “Is there anything I can do to support you?” “I know a good resource we can call, do you want me to call with you?” “It wasn’t your fault.” Some things to not say: -don’t ask them if they are sure -Don’t […]
Why do apps have age limits?
Age limits exist because children’s brains, judgment, and impulse control are still developing. Many platforms contain adult content, targeted advertising, private messaging, and algorithmic recommendations that can expose kids to sexual content, harassment, or exploitation before they are emotionally equipped to process it. Age limits are not about morality or trust. They are about risk […]