Legal Literacy - Crime child grooming is currently a hot topic after Aurelie Moeremans published a book entitled "Broken Strings" which contains a true story in her life about trauma from sexual crimes.
The definition of child grooming is not as narrow as rape of a minor. Therefore, we start with a discussion of "what is child grooming?"
Child grooming is a form of psychological manipulation of a minor and is usually aimed at the perpetrator's personal satisfaction. Why do perpetrators choose minors? Many possibilities can occur. One of them is because minors are very easy to control their minds. If a bad incident occurs, the first to be blamed is usually the victim. It is difficult to follow up because the public considers this to happen on the basis of "mutual consent". Isn't it sad?
Society's indifference allows perpetrators to roam everywhere without fear. The pattern is always classic. Seducing for indecent photos/videos, then threatening the victim with the documentation they have if the victim chooses to end the relationship. This kind of thing happens continuously until the perpetrator is satisfied seeing the victim destroyed and ostracized from their own family. Here, our role is questioned. "Why do we choose to scold and punish the child instead of understanding the root of the problem?"
Most victims of child grooming come from environments that are always indifferent. The lack of concern from the adults around them makes them seek attention from outside without knowing what true affection is. They never know what true love is, or what true concern is.
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) recorded that there were 2,031 cases of child grooming throughout 2025 and the number of victims reached 2,063. It is not only state institutions that must handle this, but adults around them are also needed to participate in preventing child grooming cases.
The role and presence of parents are very important for a child's growth and development. What they need is the physical and emotional presence of their parents, not just their wealth. Take the time to supervise children in their use of social media. Teach children to always be open and dare to be honest. Not judging a child when they tell the truth is the first step in opening a child's trust in their parents.
We really have to watch over our children before we lose their cheerful smiles.
Comments (0)
Write a comment