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“Under His Spell”: Victims’ Perspectives of Being Groomed Online

Author

Listed:
  • Helen C. Whittle

    (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre, London SW1V 2WG, UK
    School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK)

  • Catherine E. Hamilton-Giachritsis

    (School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK)

  • Anthony R. Beech

    (School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to highlight key themes within the process of online grooming from the victim’s perspective. Eight adolescents who experienced online grooming were interviewed and data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. It was found that participants, who had been both sexually abused online and/or offline, were subjected to a range of grooming experiences. Consistent grooming themes within this sample included: manipulation; deception; regular/intense contact; secrecy; sexualisation; kindness and flattery; erratic temperament and nastiness; and simultaneous grooming of those close to the victim. These themes are similar to those identified by the literature surrounding grooming offline. Analysis demonstrated that once a participant was ‘enmeshed’ in the relationship with the offender, they were more likely to endure negative feelings associated with the grooming, than if the victim was not ‘enmeshed’. This paper supports the notion that grooming is a varied and non-linear process. Recommendations are made for practitioners, parents and carers, as well as suggestions for primary preventative education.

Suggested Citation

  • Helen C. Whittle & Catherine E. Hamilton-Giachritsis & Anthony R. Beech, 2014. "“Under His Spell”: Victims’ Perspectives of Being Groomed Online," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 3(3), pages 1-23, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:3:y:2014:i:3:p:404-426:d:39097
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    Cited by:

    1. Sonia Livingstone & Jessica Mason, 2015. "Sexual rights and sexual risks among youth online: a review of existing knowledge regarding childrenand young people’s developing sexuality in relationto new media environments," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 64567, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.

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