Introduction

Course Objectives

Through a blend of theoretical frameworks, case studies, survivor testimonies, and practical advocacy strategies, this course aims to:

1. Define and explore the concept of sexual grooming, emphasizing the tactics used by perpetrators and the vulnerabilities that increase risk.
2. Examine the public health implications of cross-generational sexual relationships, including the links to increased rates of unplanned pregnancies, HIV transmission, and emotional trauma among adolescents.
3. Analyze real-world case studies and survivor testimonies to understand the lasting impact of grooming and the societal structures that enable it.
4. Develop targeted intervention strategies, including education, media advocacy, and community mobilization, to combat sexual grooming at various levels.
5. Introduce The Sexual Grooming Solution, a prevention-based framework aimed at reducing the prevalence of grooming, empowering adolescents, and disrupting cycles of exploitation.
6. Train participants in effective advocacy and policy making, preparing them to engage with lawmakers, educators, and media professionals to push for systemic change.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three comprehensive parts, each designed to build on the previous module:

1. Understanding Grooming and Cross-Generational Relationships – Participants will explore the foundational concepts, statistics, and social dynamics that contribute to sexual grooming and its intersection with cross-generational relationships.
2. Advocacy Strategies and Media Campaigns for Awareness – This section focuses on how to effectively raise awareness, engage policymakers, and leverage media to shift public perceptions and influence legislation.
3. Co-Creation and Collaboration for Sustained Action – The final section will emphasize survivor-centered storytelling, community resource-building, and strategies for sustaining advocacy efforts beyond the course.

Through interactive lectures, real-world case analysis, and hands-on digital media assignments, participants will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to combat sexual grooming and exploitation. Join this critical movement to protect adolescents, challenge harmful social norms, and build a future where young people can thrive free from the threat of grooming and abuse. Remember, even the longest journey begins with a single step. With each new insight gained, we move together toward a safer tomorrow for our youth. I look forward to continuing this vital work with you.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

A. Recognize the Psychological and Social Aspects of Sexual Grooming

• A1: Identify key psychological tactics used in grooming.
• A2: Understand the vulnerabilities that increase the risk of grooming.
• A3: Examine the long-term psychological and social impacts on survivors.

B. Explore Cross-Generational Sexual Relationships and Power Dynamics

• B1: Define cross-generational relationships and analyze their implications.
• B2: Understand how power imbalances contribute to exploitation.
• B3: Examine cultural and societal narratives surrounding such relationships.

C. Develop Strategies for Prevention, Identification, and Intervention

• C1: Learn techniques to educate and empower individuals at risk.
• C2: Create guidelines for identifying and responding to grooming cases.
• C3: Develop community-based intervention models.

D. Analyze the Role of Media and Digital Platforms in Grooming

• D1: Examine how predators use online platforms.
• D2: Assess media narratives and their influence on perceptions of grooming.
• D3: Explore strategies for digital safety and responsible media consumption.

E. Advocate for Policy and Legal Reforms

• E1: Examine global and national legal frameworks on grooming and exploitation.
• E2: Develop advocacy strategies to strengthen protective policies.
• E3: Understand the role of law enforcement and support systems.

F. Assess the Effectiveness of Interventions and Policy Implementations

• F1: Identify indicators for measuring the impact of grooming interventions.
• F2: Analyze case studies to assess the effectiveness of policies.
• F3: Recommend improvements based on evaluation findings.