In the context of child sexual abuse, what does being targeted often involve?

Being targeted in the context of child sexual abuse often involves strategic grooming behaviors. Grooming is a process used by abusers to gain a child's trust and manipulate them into a situation where abuse can occur. This involves various tactics, such as establishing a relationship with the child and the child's family, creating emotional bonds, and gradually introducing inappropriate behaviors or boundaries. These behaviors are intentional and calculated, allowing the abuser to make the child more vulnerable to exploitation.

Through grooming, abusers can create an environment where their actions go unnoticed or are normalized by the child and those around them. This strategic approach highlights the predatory nature of child sexual abuse, distinguishing it from random acts, as the perpetrator usually has specific targets in mind based on their ability to manipulate and control the situation.