Awareness is Key to Recognizing Signs of Grooming in Sport
Awareness Is Key to Recognizing Signs of Grooming in Sport
Is it okay for a coach to repeatedly work one-on-one with a child after practice? What if an assistant coach or older volunteer develops a pattern of secretly texting a teen athlete?
Do these actions constitute grooming?
Sport is a valuable opportunity for kids to build self-esteem and grow in meaningful ways. But when grooming occurs, it can have serious, long-lasting consequences, causing the athlete being targeted to feel uncomfortable or put them at risk of being abused.
Parents and guardians can help by being aware of and responding to inappropriate behavior early. But when it comes to grooming, how do you tell the difference between a caring adult and one grooming your child for abuse?
The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization created to respond to and prevent sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, from which it is independent. The Center also trains and educates people and organizations at all levels to support sport and recreation settings across America that protect athlete well-being.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
Awareness is Key to Recognizing Signs of Grooming in Sport
Awareness Is Key to Recognizing Signs of Grooming in Sport
Is it okay for a coach to repeatedly work one-on-one with a child after practice? What if an assistant coach or older volunteer develops a pattern of secretly texting a teen athlete?
Do these actions constitute grooming?
Sport is a valuable opportunity for kids to build self-esteem and grow in meaningful ways. But when grooming occurs, it can have serious, long-lasting consequences, causing the athlete being targeted to feel uncomfortable or put them at risk of being abused.
Parents and guardians can help by being aware of and responding to inappropriate behavior early. But when it comes to grooming, how do you tell the difference between a caring adult and one grooming your child for abuse?
The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization created to respond to and prevent sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, from which it is independent. The Center also trains and educates people and organizations at all levels to support sport and recreation settings across America that protect athlete well-being.