Not every warning sign is obvious. Grooming often starts with trust—not fear.
In a new article, FCM faculty member Dr. April Bell and co-author Sativa Banks explore how predators build relationships with young people over time, making the warning signs easy to miss. They share expert insight on what parents and caregivers should watch for, including subtle shifts in behavior, increasing secrecy, and the importance of creating a safe environment where teens feel comfortable speaking up.
The takeaway: Prevention starts with awareness, trusted conversations, and recognizing concerning patterns before they escalate.
Drs. Bell and Banks are public health researchers whose work centers the safety and well-being of Black women and girls. Dr. Bell is the Director of Girlx Lab.