Grooming is a practice in which an adult, usually through digital means, establishes a trusting relationship with a minor in order to manipulate and sexually exploit them. It is another form of sexual abuse, designed to emotionally and psychologically dismantle the victim, leading them to participate in activities they would otherwise reject.

This process is usually gradual and involves a series of deceit, flattery, gifts, emotional blackmail, and psychological manipulation until the minor feels unable to resist the abuser’s demands.

The consequences can be devastating, including psychological trauma, social isolation, and, in extreme cases, physical sexual abuse. For this reason, we must pay close attention to the behaviors of our children or students, as they are much more exposed than we think.