Published Dec. 16, 2005
Cameras and abuse
There are patterns of behavior among those who molest children. In working to protect our children, it is useful to examine these patterns and think of ways to teach our children to look out for them.
One common behavior involves taking pictures and videos.
The molester often photographs or collects photographs of victims. At times these photographs are innocent pictures of the child(ren) doing ordinary activities. It is flattering and fun for a child to be photographed. Especially in these days of digital cameras, video cameras, and computer imaging, picture taking is a popular activity.
Children are naturally curious about sex and about their bodies. Predators can use this natural curiosity to lure children from innocent picture taking into having their pictures taken in the nude or in sexual poses with their clothes on.
Predators photograph children both when they are alone and when they are in groups. The molester tries to convince the children that it is just a game, that all is in fun.
In reality, the pictures serve a purpose for the predator. They can be used to lower the inhibitions of a victim. If a child sees himself photographed in certain ways, it desensitizes him to the danger and irregularity of the situation. To a child, the poses gradually begin to look acceptable.
The predator also uses the photographs to fantasize when no victim is available. The pictures can be used to justify inappropriate sexual activities or to blackmail victims into secrecy.
Parents need to help children develop good judgment when it comes to being photographed.
It is a good idea for parents to teach boundaries about who should be allowed to take pictures. It is also helpful to have younger children practice telling adults that they can’t have their pictures taken without parental permission.
Older children and adolescents need to know the dangers involved in being too accommodating to adults who want to take pictures. Adolescents need to be cautioned about the lure of flattery that the abuser uses to ingratiate him/herself with the teen.
Teens need to think beyond the moment and decide whether or not to acquiesce to having their picture taken. This is a good opportunity for them to practice using their emerging critical thinking skills.