In both my professional work and personal life, I strive to be a safe person for young people.

Exploitation, like all forms of abuse, is isolating.

Those who prey on young people know how to make them feel alone — conditioning them to endure harm in silence, to believe they have no one they can trust, and to fear that no one will believe them if they speak.

Too often, we as adults reinforce that fear. We respond with judgment instead of compassion, impose morality instead of care, and treat young people experiencing sexual violence as if they were responsible for it.

The taboo around sexual exploitation keeps it in the shadows, and that silence only protects predators.

Listening Is Protection

If a young person discloses that they’re being harmed, the most powerful thing an adult can do is listen. Believe them. Affirm that what’s happening is not their fault. And then, take action that prioritizes their safety and agency.

It’s also important not to pressure them into immediate decisions — including leaving an exploitative situation. For many, that kind of pressure only deepens shame and discourages them from reaching out again if the harm continues.

Compassionate, nonjudgmental response protects.

Every Young Person Deserves Care

Every young person deserves to be believed, protected, and surrounded by adults who respond with care.

What can you do today to show the youth around you that you are there for them?