Study Reveals Social Media’s Role in Child Sexual Assault Cases #

A new study to be presented at a pediatrics conference has found that social media plays a significant role in facilitating communication between sexual assault perpetrators and child victims. The research examined cases of children aged 10-18 treated for sexual assault at a California hospital between 2018 and 2023.

Key findings include:

• 7% of all child sexual assault cases involved social media communication with the perpetrator
• 12% of cases involving non-relative perpetrators were linked to social media
• The average victim age was 13, with 89% being female
• About 80% of perpetrators were adult men

Researchers note that more recent data suggests the percentage of child sexual assaults tied to social media apps has increased significantly.

Recommendations for Parents #

Experts advise parents to take several steps to protect children:

1. Have open conversations about online safety and consent
2. Explain how predators may contact children online
3. Teach kids to get parental permission before meeting online contacts in person
4. Empower children to say no to uncomfortable requests
5. Monitor children’s social media accounts and contacts
6. Utilize parental controls and safety features on social platforms
7. Discuss appropriate content for posting online
8. Create an environment where kids feel safe coming to parents with concerns

While social media poses serious risks, experts emphasize that open communication and monitoring can help mitigate dangers for children online. Parents are encouraged to stay involved in their children’s digital lives while teaching them to protect themselves.