Recognizing the Tactics of a Predator: What Every Parent Should Know

At Moses Movement, our mission is to educate, equip, and empower families and communities to prevent exploitation—and that begins with truth.

One of the hardest truths we must face is that predators don’t always look like monsters. In fact, they often appear charming, trustworthy, and even helpful. That’s what makes them dangerous. Predators thrive in secrecy, and they are often hiding in plain sight—at church, in schools, on social media, or even within the family.

But when parents and caregivers are informed, they’re empowered. The more we understand how predators think and operate, the more we can protect the children entrusted to us.

🕵️‍♀️ The Real Profile of a Predator

There is no single look, job, or personality that defines a predator. But many share common behavioral patterns that we can learn to recognize:

1. They are often well-liked.

Predators rarely fit the stereotype of the “creepy stranger.” Many are charming, helpful, and gain the trust of both children and adults. They build rapport with families to lower suspicions.

2. They seek out access to children.

They often volunteer, work, or socialize in settings where children are present—churches, schools, youth groups, sports teams, online communities.

3. They use “grooming” tactics.

Grooming is a calculated process where the predator gradually builds a relationship with a child (and their family) to manipulate and exploit them over time. This may include:

• Giving gifts

• Offering special attention or privileges

• Isolating the child emotionally or physically

• Normalizing touch or inappropriate conversations

  
  

4. They test boundaries.

Predators often begin with small boundary violations—like asking to keep a secret, roughhousing, or casual touch—to see how the child or adult reacts. If there’s no pushback, they escalate.

5. They target vulnerability.

Predators often seek out children who appear emotionally needy, lonely, insecure, or lacking strong supervision. This includes children experiencing trauma, family conflict, or isolation.

🚨 Red Flags Parents Shouldn’t Ignore

• An adult who insists on alone time with your child

• Someone who offers excessive gifts, treats, or “special” privileges

• A person who tries to build a secret relationship with your child

• Dismissing your concerns with phrases like, “You’re being too sensitive,” or “It’s just a joke”

• A child who becomes secretive, withdrawn, or unusually attached to an adult

  
  

✝️ Faith, Wisdom, and Protection

As a faith-based organization, we believe in the power of redemption—but also in the necessity of vigilance. Jesus called us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). That means we don’t walk in fear—but we do walk in awareness.

Your discernment, your voice, and your boundaries are your child’s first line of defense.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How to Protect Your Child

• Talk often and early about body safety and boundaries.

• Model healthy boundaries in your own relationships.

• Listen without judgment when your child shares.

• Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.

• Report concerns to the appropriate authorities. Even “small” red flags matter.

  
  

🛡️ Moses Movement Is Here for You

We know these conversations are hard—but they’re also holy. When you protect a child, you reflect the heart of God. When you break cycles of silence, you disrupt generational trauma. When you stand guard, you stand in strength.

Let’s stay informed. Let’s stay alert. And let’s raise a generation of kids who are not only protected—but empowered.

Together, we can stop exploitation before it starts.

Visit mosesmvmt.org/resources to download your guide and explore upcoming trainings and workshops.