At what age do child molesters typically first attack a child?

Child molesters often first attack children during their teenage years. This is supported by research indicating that many offenders develop deviant sexual interests during adolescence and begin to act upon them at that time. The teenage years can be a formative period where individuals might explore sexuality and form relationships, but for some, this exploration can lead to inappropriate or harmful behaviors towards younger children.

This timing can also be influenced by a variety of psychological and social factors that may manifest during adolescence, such as peer influences, exposure to certain media or situations, and personal histories of trauma or abuse. Understanding this developmental window helps in recognizing the importance of awareness and intervention strategies targeting adolescents who may be at risk for harmful behavior, thereby assisting in prevention efforts for child sexual abuse.