Social and peer influences

Involvement with peers or gang members who engage in criminal behaviour can normalise harmful actions and create pressure to participate. Association with a new peer group.

The absence of supportive relationships or guidance can leave children and young people more susceptible to negative influences seeking to fill that void.

Spotting the signs is good. Especially if you notice something off about a friend. But, what do we do with that? Who do we go to about that? If we think it's happening to a friend will they get into trouble? Because, what they're doing is illegal.

Perpetrators may manipulate by offering false promises of acceptance, recognition, or financial gain.

Experiences of exclusion or victimisation can increase vulnerability to exploitation, especially when children and young people seek belonging in unsafe peer groups.

Exposure to harmful content or peer dynamics online can reinforce risky behaviours and increase susceptibility to exploitation.