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Show Notes
Harrison Haynes was a 12-year-old, video game-loving middle school student who met a stranger on Xbox. The stranger became Harrison's "best friend," sharing intimate conversations and advice. Over the next 18 months, Harrison became the victim of "grooming," where predators establish an emotional connection with a minor under the age of consent, to lower the child's inhibitions with the objective of sexual or emotional abuse.
On today's episode, Harrison vulnerably shares his story in order to warn parents about grooming. Predators are using gaming platforms and social media to target children and they can be very difficult to spot. Harrison gives a ton of specific advice to parents about how to prepare our children for this threat and how to support a child who has experienced grooming. You can connect with Harrison on LinkedIn or reach him directly at harrison@wiredhuman.org.
About Harrison
Harrison Haynes, a student at James Madison University, is currently finishing his bachelor degree in Social Work with a concentration on Mental Health Counseling and political advocacy. Harrison is continuing his education, completing a Master's Program, and pursuing his ambition to become a Therapist in Clinical Social Work. Beyond academics, Harrison is actively involved in the Wired Human Youth Coalition, a non profit organization dedicated to promoting discussions on online safety, with a focus on empowering young voices to lead the conversation in political advocacy. Harrison also serves as a Survivor Consultant for the End-OSEAC Survivors Council, where he helps develop trauma-informed and survivor-led legislation. In his free time, Harrison co-leads a vibrant and diverse “life group” dedicated to helping students and friends find peace in an intentional, spiritual life.