Tip #9: Know the Risk and Protective Factors

Drawing on two decades of specialized clinical social work, Meghan Hurley Backofen offers a vital and practical resource in her 10 Tips for Sexual Abuse Prevention podcast. Meghan’s expertise is deeply rooted in her role as the Core Sexual Abuse Treatment Provider for Garfield County, working from the River Bridge Regional Center, a children’s advocacy center serving multiple counties in Western Colorado. Her professional life is dedicated to supporting survivors and their families, and that same compassionate, evidence-based approach informs every episode. Here, she translates complex, often daunting topics into actionable guidance for adults, caregivers, and community members. Each conversation moves beyond theory, focusing on tangible strategies and clear language that can be used in everyday life to create safer environments for children. You’ll hear direct advice on recognizing signs, fostering open communication, and understanding protective behaviors, all aimed at empowering adults to be effective preventers. This isn't about fear, but about building knowledge and confidence. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a trusted voice in the field, one that combines profound professional experience with a genuine commitment to making prevention a common, understood practice for everyone.