Predatory behavior refers to actions and conduct characterized by the exploitation, manipulation, or harm of others

for personal gain, satisfaction, or gratification. This behavior often involves deceit, aggression, or manipulation to take
advantage of vulnerable individuals or situations. In the context of identifying sexual predators, predatory behavior
specifically pertains to actions aimed at grooming, coercing, or engaging in sexual exploitation with others, typically
those who are less able to protect themselves, such as children or individuals in vulnerable circumstances.
URL: Predatory Behavior Definition (easyllama.com)

There are no official diagnostic criteria to define predatory behavior. However, predatory behavior may look like an
attempt to trick, manipulate, or control other people to get what one wants without regard for the harm it causes. In
romantic relationships, predatory behavior often aims to obtain sexual favors, money, or resources, regardless of the
other person’s desires or consent. Other relationship predators might seek material goods from the people they
target. Some may also be motivated by the desire for the sense of power they gain by deceiving or dominating
others. These motivations aren’t mutually exclusive, and it’s not uncommon for someone acting abusively to exploit
their partner in multiple hurtful ways.
URL: Predators Definition: Learning To Recognize Signs Of Predatory Behavior In Relationships | BetterHelp

In FY16 alone, Child Protective Services agencies substantiated, or found strong evidence to indicate that,
57,329 children were victims of sexual abuse.One in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 experience
sexual abuse or assault. 82% of all victims under 18 are female. Females ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely
than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault. The effects of child sexual
abuse can be long-lasting and affect the victim's mental health. Victims are more likely than non-victims to
experience the following mental health challenges: About 4 times more likely to develop symptoms of drug
abuse, About 4 times more likely to experience PTSD as adults, About 3 times more likely to experience a
major depressive episode as adults. Out of the sexual abuse cases reported to CPS in 2013, 47,000 men and
5,000 women were the alleged perpetrators. In 88% of the sexual abuse claims that CPS substantiates or finds
supporting evidence of, the perpetrator is male. In 9% of cases they are female, and 3% are unknown.
URL:Children and Teens: Statistics | RAINN

5 signs of Predatory Behavior:

1. Associating with Children

A sexual predator with a particular interest in children may show a preference for associating with grade school,
middle school, or high school-aged children. They may have few friendships of their own age or have unusually close
friendships with children.
2. Creating Dependency
A sexual predator may begin manipulating their chosen victim to create dependency and intimacy. In the beginning,
they may be very attentive, showering the individual with gifts, praise, phone calls, and texts.
3. Using Manipulative Language
You may notice a potential sexual predator using manipulative language. They may insult or mock the victim on their
behavior, appearance, clothes, friends, or other parts of their personal life.
4. Pushing Physical and Sexual Boundaries
Sexual predators may push past healthy boundaries. This behavior may begin with seemingly innocent touches on
the back, hand, or leg.
5. Expressing Jealousy and Controlling Behavior
In many cases, the sexual predator may be jealous and controlling around friends, family members, or other romantic
interests. They may monitor the victim’s social media activity, personal life, and day-to-day activities.

URL:Sexual Predators: 5 Signs to Look For (webmd.com)