Free Mind Movement

What is Child Sexual Exploitation?

Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of abuse where young people are manipulated, tricked, or coerced into sexual activities. The worst part? Many kids don’t even realize they’re being exploited. At first, it might look like a loving relationship where the child is getting gifts, attention, or money. But behind it, there's often grooming and manipulation. It can happen to both boys and girls, and sadly, it happens far too often.

CSE can take many forms—whether it's through physical contact or online manipulation. Sometimes, it's a mix of both. Technology has opened up new ways for predators to exploit children without ever meeting them in person.

What happens in these situations?

Many times, children believe they’re in a romantic or trusting relationship. They might receive gifts, money, or even affection, making it seem like they’re valued. But in reality, the abuser has darker intentions. Once they gain the child's trust, they start controlling them—using emotional blackmail, threats, or even violence. In some cases, abusers force children to engage in sexual acts with others or even recruit other children.

It’s important to know:

Even if it seems like the child "agreed" to the sexual activity, it’s still exploitation. Why? Because children can’t consent to their own abuse. They’re being groomed and manipulated into it. And remember, it’s not always physical. Exploitation can happen entirely online, too.

Who is at risk?

Sadly, any child or young person can be at risk, no matter their background, gender, or family situation. It can happen in any community, to any child, anywhere. And sometimes, children are exploited by other young people, not just adults.

Sexual exploitation causes harm to children and young people, including significant damage to their physical and mental health. It can also have profound and damaging consequences for their family, including siblings (who may also be at risk of abuse).

Sexual exploitation has links with other forms of crime, for example, domestic violence and abuse, online and offline grooming, the distribution of abusive images of children, criminal exploitation and child trafficking. The perpetrators of sexual exploitation are often well organised and use sophisticated tactics.

Effects of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

The aftermath of sexual exploitation, whether in person or online, profoundly affects the lives of children and young people, leaving behind a trail of challenges that touch every aspect of their well-being . It's not just the physical harm; it leaves long-lasting emotional and mental scars. Survivors of child sexual exploitation often face serious challenges later in life, including:

Emotional Trauma: Many survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The trauma doesn’t just go away when the exploitation stops—it can affect them for years

Early Pregnancy: Some young people who are exploited may become pregnant, adding to their already overwhelming circumstances.

Building Trust and Relationships: Survivors may find it challenging to trust others and fear forming new relationships, resulting in a profound sense of isolation from family and friends.

Academic Struggles: The emotional toll can lead to problems in school—low grades, skipping classes, or even dropping out altogether.

Employment Struggles: Long-term repercussions may manifest in struggles to secure employment, as survivors face challenges in establishing stable career paths.

Coping Mechanisms: Many turn to self-harm or substance abuse as a way to cope with their emotional pain.

Battling Substance Abuse: The trauma may drive victims towards destructive coping mechanisms, elevating the risk of alcohol and drug abuse and compounding existing challenges.

Legal Trouble: Some survivors may end up involved in criminal activities, not realizing that their trauma is pushing them in that direction.

Homelessness: The fallout from abuse—broken family ties, emotional struggles, and financial difficulties—can lead to homelessness.

The Reality of consent

When it comes to sexual exploitation, the concept of consent is crucial—and often misunderstood. Children cannot truly consent to their own exploitation. It's important to remember:

Under 13: Children under 13 are legally incapable of consenting to any sexual activity. This is considered statutory rape.
Under 16: Sexual activity with anyone under 16 is a criminal offense.
16 and 17-year-olds: Even if a person is 16 or 17, it’s illegal for an adult in a position of trust (like a teacher or coach) to have a sexual relationship with them.
Incapacitation: If the victim is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if they or their family are threatened with violence, then any "consent" isn’t real.

The bottom line? No child or young person ever "chooses" to be abused or exploited. The power dynamics, manipulation, and threats at play make it impossible for them to truly consent. That’s why we need to protect children and be aware of the risks.

What can we do to help?

Prevention is key. By educating ourselves, our children, and our communities, we can help reduce the risk of exploitation. At Free Mind Movement, we’re here to help. We offer workshops, training, and resources to empower young people and the adults around them to recognize the signs of abuse and exploitation.

If you want to know more about how to keep children safe or the specific risks in your area, contact us today. We believe that together, we can protect our most vulnerable.

CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION